Complete the statement using one of these symbols: <, =, >
2 ___ 5/2
Answer options:
A.
<
B.
=
C.
How to approach this question
1. To compare a whole number and a fraction, convert the fraction to a decimal or mixed number.
2. Convert the improper fraction 5/2 to a decimal.
3. To do this, divide the numerator (5) by the denominator (2).
4. 5 ÷ 2 = 2.5.
5. Now compare 2 and 2.5.
6. 2 is less than 2.5.
Full Answer
A.<✓ Correct
To compare 2 and 5/2, we should express them in the same format. Let's convert the improper fraction 5/2 to a decimal.
A fraction represents a division. So, 5/2 means 5 divided by 2.
5 ÷ 2 = 2.5
Now we are comparing 2 and 2.5.
2 is less than 2.5.
The correct symbol is < (less than).
So, 2 < 5/2.
Common mistakes
✗ Reading 5/2 as 5.2.
✗ Confusing the < and > symbols.
Expert