Compare 3/8 and 1/3
Compare these two fractions to find which is greater, lesser, or if they are equal.
Answer:
\frac{3}{8} > \frac{1}{3}
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1
Identify the Fractions
We need to compare two fractions:
First fraction: 3/8
Second fraction: 1/3
We'll use the cross-multiplication method.
\frac{3}{8} \quad \text{vs} \quad \frac{1}{3}
Step 2
Cross Multiply
Multiply each numerator by the opposite denominator:
3 × 3 = 9 (left side)
1 × 8 = 8 (right side)
The larger product tells us which fraction is larger.
3 \times 3 = 9 \quad \text{and} \quad 1 \times 8 = 8
Step 3
Compare the Products
9 is greater than 8
Since the left product is larger, the left fraction is larger.
\frac{3}{8} > \frac{1}{3}
Step 4
Verify with Decimals
We can verify by converting to decimals:
3/8 = 0.375
1/3 = 0.333333
0.375 is greater than 0.333333 ✓
0.375 > 0.333333