Which is larger: 5/8 or 7/12?

• A. 5/8
• B. 7/12
• C. They are equal
• D. Cannot be determined

Answer: (A)

When comparing two fractions with different denominators, cross-multiplying gives a quick test: multiply the numerator of each fraction by the other’s denominator. If the product on the left is bigger, the left fraction is larger.

Here, cross-multiplying gives 5 × 12 = 60 and 7 × 8 = 56. Since 60 is larger than 56, the fraction on the left is the larger one.

Another way is to convert to a common denominator. The least common multiple of 8 and 12 is 24, so 5/8 becomes 15/24 and 7/12 becomes 14/24. Since 15/24 is greater than 14/24, the same conclusion follows.

So, 5/8 is larger.