Problem 37

Question

What is a proportion? Give an example with your description.

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
A proportion refers to a statement that two ratios are equal. For instance, the proportion \(\frac{2}{5} = \frac{x}{10}\) can be solved to find x = 4.
1Step 1: Proportion Definition
A proportion is a name we give to a statement that two ratios are equal. It can be used to solve for a missing value when equivalent fractions are set equal to each other.
2Step 2: Giving an Example
Here's an example of a proportion: \(\frac{2}{5} = \frac{x}{10}\)
3Step 3: Explain the Example
In the example, we have two fractions set equal to each other. This makes a proportion. The value of x can be solved by cross-multiplication such that \(2*10 = 5*x\), leading to x = 4. The proportion therefore helps to solve for unknown values in equivalent fractions.