Question

Ankur estimated the quotient of 15 1/3 divided by -4 2/3 to be 3. Which best describes his error?

Ankur multiplied the compatible numbers 15 and –3.
Ankur found that the quotient of a positive number and a negative number is negative.
Ankur found that the quotient of a positive number and a negative number is positive.
Ankur added the compatible numbers 15 and –3.

Answer 1

When dividing a positive number by a negative number, the result is negative.

A better estimation would be -3.

Answer 2

As the two numbers
`15 (1)/(3) {\text{and} -4(2)/(3)` are mixed fractions.

`15 (1)/(3)= (46)/(3) \\\\ -4(2)/(3)= (-14)/(3)`

Now,
`( (46)/(3))/((-14)/(3))` = - 3

Ankur's answer= 3

The mistake he has committed , while dividing two fractions , he must have forgot that one of the fraction which is in the denominator bears negative sign before it.

So,
`\frac {+}{-}= -`.

Ankur forgot to put negative sign before 3.

So, The correct option which describes ankur's error is : Ankur found that the quotient of a positive number and a negative number is positive.

Option 3 is right choice.