Ratios and Rates

A ratio is a relationship between two numbers indicating how many times the first number contains the second.

To simplify a ratio, divide both terms by their greatest common divisor (GCD).

5 : 2

A ratio can be expressed as a fraction by placing the first term over the second term.

5/2

Comparing quantities using a ratio means expressing the relationship between the quantities in a way that shows how much of one exists relative to the other.

The ratio of red apples to green apples is 4 : 3.

The ratio of 12 dogs to 6 cats can be simplified to 2 : 1.

The ratio of PS4 games to Nintendo games is 11 : 13.

A ratio compares two quantities, while a rate compares two quantities with different units (e.g., speed is a rate comparing distance and time).