LESSON 6 Solving Word Problems Using Proportions
In order to solve word problems using proportions, it is necessary to
understand the concept of a ratio. Aratiois a comparison of two numbers by
using division. For example, the ratio of 4 to 10 is 104 , which reduces to^25.
Ratios are used to make comparisons between quantities. If you drive
160 miles in 4 hours, then the ratio of miles to hours is^1604 or^401. In other
words, you averaged 40 miles per hour.
It is important to understand that whatever number comes first in a ratio
statement is placed in the numerator of the fraction and whatever number
comes second in the ratio statement is placed in the denominator of the
fraction. In general, the ratio ofatobis written asab.
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