Determining if fractions are equivalent

Equivalent fractions show the same part of the whole.  
They are easy to recognize if the parts are shown as they were in the equivalent fractions tutorial.

To recognize equivalent fractions when they are written numerically, CROSS PRODUCTS are used.

If the CROSS PRODUCTS of two fractions are equal, then the fractions are equivalent.

These fractions are equivalent because their CROSS PRODUCTS are equal.

These fractions are not equivalent because their CROSS PRODUCTS are not equal.

Calculate the CROSS PRODUCTS for each of these pairs of fractions. 
If they are equal, the fractions are equivalent.  If they are not equal, the fractions are not equivalent.

 

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