Proportions 1

Proportions 1 Proportion in math is defined as the similarity while comparison between two quantities or substances. Proportion can also used between two geometric objects where the shapes, sizes, lengths can be compared. When things are in proportion their relative sizes are the same. Proportion is a fixed ratio between two objects. Proportionality always maintains a fixed ratio or fraction between two quantities. For example, a / b = c / d. It can be written as a : b = c : d. Example 1: Solve for u in the proportion 12/u = 6/5. Solution: Here u is the unknown in the proportion 12/u = 6/5 Now multiply both sides of the equation by u; this gives 12 = 6 u /5. Now multiply both sides of the equation by 5; this gives 60 = 6 u. Now divide both sides of the equation by 6; So u = 60 / 10. Hence the value of u for the given proportion = 10. Question: Multiple choice question (Pick the correct option.) Find the w in the proportion w : 6 = 2 : 3? a) 9 b) 12 c) 4 d) None of these. Correct answer: option c Explanation: Here the given proportion is w : 6 = 2 : 3. It can be expressed as a fraction in the form. This gives, w/6 = 2/3. Now multiply both sides of the equation by 6. This gives 6(w/ 6) = (2/3) * (6); w = 12/3 4. Hence the value of w for the given proportion is 4.