- Start with the second fraction: ( dfrac{15}{40} ).
- Find a common factor of 15 and 40.
Both are divisible by ( 5 ).
- Divide the numerator and denominator by the same number (this keeps the value the same):
( 15 div 5 = 3 )
( 40 div 5 = 8 )
- So the simplified form is:
( dfrac{15}{40} = dfrac{3}{8} )
- Now compare with the first fraction:
( dfrac{3}{8} ) and ( dfrac{3}{8} ) are the same.
Conclusion: The statement is true.
Quick check (optional): Cross-multiply to be sure.
( 3 imes 40 = 120 )
( 8 imes 15 = 120 )
Since both products are equal, the fractions are equal.