Question

how will the product of (72 \times \frac{3}{7}) compare to 72, and why?

choose 1 answer:

(a) it will be less because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is less than 1.
(b) it will be equal because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is equal to 1.
(c) it will be greater because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is greater than 1.

Explanation:

Analyze the given expression

We are asked to compare the product \(72 \times \frac{3}{7}\) to the original number \(72\).

Evaluate the multiplier

The multiplier is the fraction \(\frac{3}{7}\). Since the numerator \(3\) is less than the denominator \(7\), we have:

$$\frac{3}{7} < 1$$

Apply scaling rules

Multiplying a positive number by a factor less than \(1\) results in a product that is smaller than the original number:

$$72 \times \frac{3}{7} < 72$$

Match with options

This matches option A, which states that the product will be less because we are multiplying by a fraction less than \(1\).

Answer:

• (A) It will be less because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is less than 1. (Correct answer)
• (B) It will be equal because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is equal to 1.
• (C) It will be greater because we are multiplying 72 by a fraction that is greater than 1.