Verified Answer :

  • To identify a fraction \(\frac{a}{b}\) between \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(1\), ensure it satisfies \(\frac{1}{2} < \frac{a}{b} < 1\).
  • Convert the fraction to a decimal and check if it is between \(0.5\) and \(1\).
  • Alternatively, check if the numerator is greater than half the denominator (\(2a > b\)) while remaining less than the denominator (\(a < b\)).
  • For example, \(\frac{2}{3} \approx 0.67\) and \(\frac{4}{5} = 0.8\) both satisfy these conditions.

Explanation

  1. Understanding the Condition for Fractions

To identify fractions that are greater than \(\frac{1}{2}\) but less than \(1\), we look for fractions \(\frac{a}{b}\) (where \(a\) and \(b\) are positive integers and \(a < b\)) that satisfy the compound inequality:
\[\frac{1}{2} < \frac{a}{b} < 1\]
This inequality defines a specific range of values between \(0.5\) and \(1.0\). Any fraction whose decimal equivalent falls strictly within this interval qualifies.

  1. Methodology for Verification

To determine if a specific fraction \(\frac{a}{b}\) fits this criteria, we can use two primary methods:

  1. Decimal conversion: Convert the fraction to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator (\(a \div b\)). If the result is \(> 0.5\) and \(< 1\), the fraction is in the target range.
  2. Cross-multiplication: We can compare the fraction to the bounds separately:
  • For \(\frac{a}{b} > \frac{1}{2}\): Cross-multiplying gives \(2a > b\).
  • For \(\frac{a}{b} < 1\): This is naturally true whenever \(a < b\).

Combining these, a fraction \(\frac{a}{b}\) is between \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(1\) if and only if \(b < 2a < 2b\).

  1. Testing and Identifying Examples

Let us apply this to some examples to see which ones fit:

  • Consider \(\frac{2}{3}\): Here, \(a=2, b=3\). We check \(b < 2a < 2b\), which is \(3 < 4 < 6\). This is true, so \(\frac{2}{3}\) is between \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(1\).
  • Consider \(\frac{3}{8}\): Here, \(a=3, b=8\). We check \(8 < 6 < 16\). This is false because \(8\) is not less than \(6\).
  • Consider \(\frac{4}{5}\): Here, \(a=4, b=5\). We check \(5 < 8 < 10\). This is true, so \(\frac{4}{5}\) is between \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(1\).

By using these criteria, you can test any set of fractions provided in a worksheet or list.

  1. Conclusion

In summary, to find the fractions that are greater than \(\frac{1}{2}\) but less than \(1\), confirm that for any fraction \(\frac{a}{b}\), the numerator is more than half the denominator (\(a > \frac{b}{2}\)) but still smaller than the denominator itself (\(a < b\)). These are the fractions that belong in your list.

Examples

When you are dividing a pizza or a cake among friends, identifying fractions helps ensure everyone gets a fair portion. For instance, if you have a group and decide that each person should receive more than half but less than a whole piece of the pizza to stay satisfied without overeating, you are effectively choosing portions \(\frac{a}{b}\) such that \(\frac{1}{2} < \frac{a}{b} < 1\). This skill of comparing fractions is essential in cooking, budgeting, and project management where resources must be allocated proportionally.