Comparing fractions with equal numerators

Comparing fractions with equal numerators

You have learnt that the value of fractions with numerator 1 decreases as the denominator increases.

Even if the numerator is not 1, the same rule applies for all the fractions that have a common numerator. For example, look at the figures below, all the shaded strips in the figure are alike.

2 out of 3 equal parts of the strip is given as

2 out of 4 equal parts of the strip is given as

2 out of 5 equal parts of the strip is given as

The figures show that 

Out of two fractions with equal numerators, the fraction with the greater denominator is the smaller fraction.

To compare unlike fractions, convert them into their equivalent fractions so that their denominators are the same.