Find which fraction is nearest to 1/2

  • Thread starter Thread starter KarlRixon
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Fraction
Join the discussion
Registration is free. Ask a follow-up in this thread, or start your own.
3 replies · 13K views
KarlRixon
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
I'm trying to teach myself maths and I'm stuck at this problem:

Homework Statement



Which of the following fractions is nearest to [tex]\frac{1}{2}[/tex]?

You must show your working.

[tex]\frac{3}{5}[/tex] [tex]\frac{7}{10}[/tex] [tex]\frac{11}{20}[/tex]

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



I know the answer is [tex]\frac{11}{20}[/tex], because it just is! What I don't know how to do is "show my working". I've tried searching for "find closest fraction to another fraction" but I can't seem to find the proper technique for calculating this. Any pointers will be gratefully received.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi,
I guess you can show by dividing each fraction!
e.g., 3/5 =0.6 and compare the each fraction's result with 1/2=0.5
 
Last edited:
That makes sense! Thanks.
 
Alternatively put them all over the same common denominator.