19. Which of the following numbers is the smallest? \( \begin{array}{l}4 / 9 \\ 1 / 2 \\ 3 / 8 \\ 7 / 16\end{array} \)

To find the smallest number among the fractions \( \frac{4}{9} \), \( \frac{1}{2} \), \( \frac{3}{8} \), and \( \frac{7}{16} \), we can convert them to decimal form or find a common denominator. If we convert them to decimals, we get: - \( \frac{4}{9} \approx 0.444 \) - \( \frac{1}{2} = 0.5 \) - \( \frac{3}{8} = 0.375 \) - \( \frac{7}{16} \approx 0.4375 \) Comparing the decimal values, \( 0.375 \) (which is \( \frac{3}{8} \)) is the smallest. Thus, the answer is \( \frac{3}{8} \). For a surprising twist, did you know that fractions and decimal numbers can actually teach you a lot about proportion and comparison? Understanding how to compare them is just one of the many practical skills math brings to our everyday lives—from cooking to budgeting! Let’s also tackle a common mistake: many people forget to check if they have a common denominator when comparing fractions. Always simplify first or make sure to convert to decimals. It can really help avoid confusion and get you to the right answer much faster!