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Regarding animals' math abilities, is there any evidence or study on their understanding of the notion of fair share and fractions?

a. Yes, there are studies demonstrating animals' understanding of fair share and fractions.
b. No, there is no evidence of animals comprehending fair share or fractions.
c. Limited research has been conducted on this specific aspect.
d. Animals' math abilities are not well-documented.

User Inertiatic
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Studies have shown that animals have a sense of fair share and can intuitively engage in behaviors that reflect an understanding of fractions, though not in the formal mathematical sense.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, there have been studies demonstrating animals' understanding of fair share and fractions. For instance, primates have been observed exhibiting a sense of fairness and the ability to share food or resources in a way that seems equitable. They may not understand fractions in the mathematical sense that humans do, but they display behaviors consistent with some intuitive grasp of proportionality and fair division. Regarding fractions, while they might not comprehend common denominators or mathematical rules, some animals do demonstrate the ability to estimate and compare quantities, which is foundational to a basic understanding of fractions. Thus, while animals may not understand fractions as formally as humans do, evidence suggests they have a rudimentary sense of fairness and can engage in behaviors that parallel the concept of dividing resources.

User Ashrugger
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