Practical Problems for Proportions

Front

What is a proportion?

Back

A proportion is an equation that states that two ratios are equal.

Front

How do you convert currency using a given exchange rate?

Back

To convert currency, multiply the amount of the original currency by the exchange rate expressed in terms of the target currency.

Front

If 14 sticks of pepperoni are needed for 28 pizzas, how do you find the number of sticks needed for a different number of pizzas?

Back

Use the unit rate: divide the number of sticks by the number of pizzas to find the sticks per pizza, then multiply by the new number of pizzas.

Front

What is the formula to find the distance traveled when speed and time are known?

Back

Distance = Speed × Time.

Front

How do you solve a proportion?

Back

Cross-multiply the two ratios and set them equal to each other, then solve for the unknown.

Front

What is the unit rate?

Back

The unit rate is a comparison of two different quantities when they are combined together, expressed as a quantity per one unit.

Front

How can you determine the total amount of money received from currency exchange?

Back

Multiply the amount of foreign currency by the conversion factor that relates it to the desired currency.

Front

What is the relationship between distance, rate, and time?

Back

Distance is directly proportional to both rate and time; if one increases, the others will also increase if the relationship is maintained.

Front

How do you set up a proportion to solve a problem?

Back

Identify two ratios that are equivalent and set them equal to each other.

Front

What is the significance of cross-multiplication in solving proportions?

Back

Cross-multiplication allows you to eliminate the fractions and simplify the equation to find the unknown.