Compare 2/5 and 3/7
Compare these two fractions to find which is greater, lesser, or if they are equal.
Answer:
\frac{2}{5} < \frac{3}{7}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
We need to compare two fractions:
First fraction: 2/5
Second fraction: 3/7
We'll use the cross-multiplication method.
\frac{2}{5} \quad \text{vs} \quad \frac{3}{7}
Step 2
Cross Multiply
Multiply each numerator by the opposite denominator:
2 × 7 = 14 (left side)
3 × 5 = 15 (right side)
The larger product tells us which fraction is larger.
2 \times 7 = 14 \quad \text{and} \quad 3 \times 5 = 15
Step 3
Compare the Products
14 is less than 15
Since the right product is larger, the right fraction is larger.
\frac{2}{5} < \frac{3}{7}
Step 4
Verify with Decimals
We can verify by converting to decimals:
2/5 = 0.4
3/7 = 0.428571
0.4 is less than 0.428571 ✓
0.4 < 0.428571