A mechanic is organizing a set of standard fractional (SAE) combination wrenches on a magn… — Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)

A mechanic is organizing a set of standard fractional (SAE) combination wrenches on a magnetic tool rail. In what order should the mechanic arrange the following wrench sizes from smallest opening size to largest opening size?

1 $5/16\text{ in}$ wrench
2 $3/8\text{ in}$ wrench
3 $7/16\text{ in}$ wrench
4 $1/2\text{ in}$ wrench

Answer

The correct sequence from smallest to largest opening size is

5/16\text{ in}

3/8\text{ in}

7/16\text{ in}

, and

1/2\text{ in}

To order fractional SAE wrenches from smallest to largest, express each size with a common denominator of

16

5/16\text{ in}

3/8\text{ in} = 6/16\text{ in}

7/16\text{ in}

, and

1/2\text{ in} = 8/16\text{ in}

. Comparing the numerators yields the sequence

5/16\text{ in}

3/8\text{ in}

7/16\text{ in}

, and

1/2\text{ in}

Step-by-Step Solution

Convert each fraction to a common denominator of 16

5/16\text{ in} = 5/16\text{ in}

3/8\text{ in} = 6/16\text{ in}

7/16\text{ in} = 7/16\text{ in}

, and

1/2\text{ in} = 8/16\text{ in}

Finding a common denominator allows direct comparison of fractional SAE wrench sizes.

Order the values by comparing their numerators

5/16 < 6/16 < 7/16 < 8/16

Since the denominators are identical, the size is directly proportional to the numerator.

List the original wrench sizes corresponding to the sorted order

5/16\text{ in} \rightarrow 3/8\text{ in} \rightarrow 7/16\text{ in} \rightarrow 1/2\text{ in}

Restores the wrench labels to their standard commercial SAE sizing format.

Key Concept

Fractional SAE Wrench Sizing and Comparison

Estimated Time:45s

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