Proportions: Word Problems

Front

What is a proportion?

Back

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

Front

How do you solve a proportion?

Back

To solve a proportion, cross-multiply the two ratios and set the products equal to each other.

Front

If 3 gallons of gas allows Ken to drive 78 miles, how many miles can he drive with 1 gallon?

Back

Ken can drive 26 miles with 1 gallon of gas (78 miles ÷ 3 gallons).

Front

If 3 out of 5 teachers wore college shirts and 21 teachers wore them, how do you find the total number of teachers?

Back

Set up the proportion: 3/5 = 21/x, then cross-multiply and solve for x.

Front

What is the relationship between the number of eggs and muffins in the problem: 3 eggs for 24 muffins?

Back

The ratio of eggs to muffins is 3:24, which simplifies to 1:8.

Front

How many eggs are needed for 144 muffins if 3 eggs are needed for 24 muffins?

Back

You need 18 eggs for 144 muffins.

Front

What does it mean for two ratios to be equivalent?

Back

Two ratios are equivalent if they represent the same relationship between quantities.

Front

If the concessions stand sold 6 hamburgers for every 5 hot dogs, what is the ratio of hamburgers to hot dogs?

Back

The ratio of hamburgers to hot dogs is 6:5.

Front

How do you find the number of hot dogs sold if 546 hamburgers were sold at a ratio of 6:5?

Back

Set up the proportion: 6/5 = 546/x, then cross-multiply and solve for x.

Front

What is cross-multiplication in solving proportions?

Back

Cross-multiplication involves multiplying the numerator of one ratio by the denominator of the other ratio.