back to per-algebra

Comparing fractions with different denominators

Example:

Jason and Ron sell the same amount of tickets. Jason sold 5/24 of his tickets. Ron sold 7/36 of his tickets. Who sold more tickets?

Solution:

We need to compare the two fractions 5/24 and 7/36.

Both of fractions have different numerators and different denominators.

Comparing these two fractions using the common denominator

Steps to compare two fractions with different denominators and different numerators

Step 1: Find the least common denominator of fractions 5/24 and 7/36

24: 1 × 24 = 24, 2 × 24 = 48, 3 × 24 = 72, 4 × 24 = 96,

36: 1 × 36 = 36, 2 × 36 = 72.

Note: 24 × 3 = 72 and 36 × 2 = 72.

So 72 is the least common denominator of fractions 5/24 and 7/36.

Step 2: Make these two fractions have the same denominator

5/24 × 3/3 = 15/72

7/36 × 2/2 = 14/72

72 is the common denominator of fractions 15/72 and 14/72

Since 15 > 14

So 15/72 > 14/72

That is, 5/24 > 7/36

Therefore, Jason sold more tickets than Ron.