Compare two quantities

Use the same form

Compare the values of A and B, even when they are written differently. A fraction, a decimal and a percentage can name the same amount.

For example, 1/2 = 0.5 = 50%. If A is 1/2 and B is 50%, they are equal. Put both quantities in the same form before deciding.

A = 1/2 = 50%

B = 50%

Both bars show half of the same whole.

3/8 = 0.375 = 37.5%

37.5% > 37%

A is 3/8 and B is 37%. Divide 3 by 8 to get 0.375. As a percentage, that is 37.5%.

Now compare 37.5% with 37%: A is greater. Keep the exact values here; the difference is only 0.5 percentage points.

A = 3/8 = 37.5%

B = 37%

A is greater by 0.5 percentage points.

This time, A is 2/5 and B is 40%. Is A greater, or are they equal?

Convert 2/5 to a percentage, or write 40% as a fraction out of 100. Then compare.

A = 2/5

B = 40%

Each full outline represents 100%.

A = 2/5 and B = 40%. Which comparison is correct?

Show the answer

A and B are equal

2/5 = 40/100 = 40%, so A and B are equal. Different forms can express exactly the same value.

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