How many thirds are there in 8/12? *
A. 1
B. 2
C…3
D. 4
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. 2.
Explanation:
To determine how many thirds are in 812\frac{8}{12}, we need to express 812\frac{8}{12} as a fraction of thirds. A “third” refers to a fraction with a denominator of 3.
- Simplify 812\frac{8}{12}:
Start by simplifying 812\frac{8}{12} to its lowest terms. Divide both the numerator (8) and the denominator (12) by their greatest common divisor, which is 4. 812=8÷412÷4=23\frac{8}{12} = \frac{8 \div 4}{12 \div 4} = \frac{2}{3} So, 812\frac{8}{12} simplifies to 23\frac{2}{3}. - Interpret the question:
The question asks how many thirds fit into 812\frac{8}{12}. Since 812\frac{8}{12} simplifies to 23\frac{2}{3}, it is already expressed in terms of thirds. - Conclusion:
The fraction 23\frac{2}{3} contains exactly 2 thirds because each “third” is equal to 13\frac{1}{3}, and 23\frac{2}{3} is made up of two 13\frac{1}{3} parts. Therefore, there are 2 thirds in 812\frac{8}{12}.
Thus, the correct answer is B. 2.