How to Arrange Fractions From Smallest to Largest

A calculator can be used to convert fractions to decimals so they can be directly compared.
••• calculator #5 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com

Fractions are used to describe part of a particular object or unit, and they consist of a numerator and a denominator. The denominator is the number at the bottom of the fraction, and it shows the total number of parts that make up the whole object. The numerator is the number at the top of the fraction, and it shows the number of parts of the object in a particular section. Fractions can be difficult to compare, as often the denominators are different and so cannot be directly related to each other. By converting the fractions to a decimal, a common base is established, and they can then be directly compared and put in order from smallest to largest.

    Turn the first fraction into a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator. A calculator can be used to make this process easier. As an example, for the fraction 6/10, the numerator 6 would be divided by the denominator 10. This gives the decimal result 0.6.

    Repeat the process, and divide the fraction's numerator by its denominator to turn each fraction to be compared into a decimal.

    Order the decimals into ascending order, from smallest to largest. As each decimal has the base 10, the decimals can be directly compared and placed in size order.

    Write the fractions in the order that matches their decimal equivalents.

    Tips

    • Fractions can also be ordered from smallest to largest by multiplying the fractions so that they all have the same denominator. The fractions can then be directly compared.

Related Articles

How to Arrange Fractions in Size Order
How to Change Fractions Into Decimal Equivalents
How to Convert a Fraction to a Ratio
How to Turn Fractions Into Integers
How to Find a Fraction of a Number
How to Borrow When Adding & Subtracting Fractions
How to Turn a Negative Denominator into a Positive
How to Place Fractions on a Number Line
How to Subtract, Add & Simplify Fractions
How to Find a Percent of a Fraction
Benchmarks to Estimate Sum or Difference
How to Add Fractions with Mixed Numbers
How to Teach Equivalent Fractions to Third Graders
How to Divide Rational Numbers
How to Teach Basic Fractions With Manipulatives
How to Teach Fractions for Fourth Grade Math
How to Change 1/4 to a Decimal Form
How to Cross Multiply
How to Change Improper Fractions to Mixed Numbers in...
How to Use Fraction Bars

Dont Go!

We Have More Great Sciencing Articles!