Egyptian Fraction/Examples/7 over 10

Example of Use of Egyptian Fractions

The fraction $\dfrac 7 {10}$ can be expressed as a sum of Egyptian fractions as:

$\dfrac 7 {10} = \dfrac 2 3 + \dfrac 1 {30}$

From the Rhind Papyrus:

Divide $7$ loaves among $10$ men -- Answer $2 / 3 + 1 / 30$.

Note that the simpler solution:

$\dfrac 7 {10} = \dfrac 1 2 + \dfrac 1 5$

is not apparent, despite the fact that it is a far more practical arrangement.

Sources

• 1986: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers ... (previous) ... (next): $2 / 3$
• 1992: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Puzzles ... (previous) ... (next): Egyptian Fractions
• 1997: David Wells: Curious and Interesting Numbers (2nd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): $2 / 3$