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Is there an easier way?

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 11:20 am
by Blitz
Question:

Put >, < or =

10/26 + 5/8 + 1/4 ___ 0.75 + 0.8

My DC started multiplying the denominators together to find a common factor. This seemed very long winded. I suggested making the fractions into approx decimals Eg 0.38ish+ 0.6ish +0.25 = 1.23ish which is < 1.55.

Is there an easier way that I am missing?

Re: Is there an easier way?

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 11:36 am
by hermanmunster
ugh... reckon "..ish" is the answer - time for a bit of estimating...

rt hand side is as you say 1.55

left hand is approx 10/25 (0.4) + 1/4 (0.25) + 5/8 (about 0.6 as you say). added up they don't get anywhere 1.55 so answer is <.

:oops: :?

Re: Is there an easier way?

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 3:01 pm
by sherry_d
Blitz wrote:
My DC started multiplying the denominators together to find a common factor.
Its probably more long winded but more straightforward. Did he remember to check that they were in the lowest? That will make it slightly easier to work out. In this case 10/26 will be 5/13

Re: Is there an easier way?

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2011 3:29 pm
by stevew61
Blitz wrote:Question:

Put >, < or =

10/26 + 5/8 + 1/4 ___ 0.75 + 0.8

Is there an easier way that I am missing?
As an approximation try converting the fractions in near hundredths,

40/104 + 60/96 + 25/100 = approx. 125/100 = 1.25 so it is a lot less than 0.75+0.8=1.55.