When comparing fractions with like numerators, the fraction with the smaller denominator is the larger fraction. This is because the numerator represents the number of parts you have, and the denominator represents the total number of parts in the whole. Therefore, if the numerators are the same, the fraction with the smaller denominator has larger parts, making the fraction as a whole larger.
For example, consider the fractions 1/3 and 1/4. Both fractions have a numerator of 1. Because 3 is smaller than 4, 1/3 is greater than 1/4. This means that one part of a whole divided into 3 pieces is bigger than one part of a whole divided into 4 pieces.
Another example: Compare 2/7 and 2/4. Both have the same numerator (2). Since 4 is smaller than 7, 2/4 is greater than 2/7. This means two parts of a whole divided into 4 pieces is bigger than two parts of a whole divided into 7 pieces.
In summary, when comparing fractions with the same numerator:
- Smaller Denominator = Larger Fraction
- Larger Denominator = Smaller Fraction
