Proportion

Definition of Proportion

  • A proportion is an equation written in the form stating that two ratios are equivalent.
  • In other words, two sets of numbers are proportional if one set is a constant times the other.

Examples of Proportion

  • are examples of proportions.

Solved Example on Proportion

A cardboard model of a Honda bike is part of an outdoor display. Its height is 4 ft. The actual Honda bike is 5 ft long and 2 ft high. Find the length of the model, if its dimensions are proportionate to the real bike.

Choices:

A. 11 ft

B. 12 ft

C. 9 ft

D. 10 ft

Correct Answer: D

Solution:

Step 1:   Let n be the length of Honda bike cardboard model.

Step 2:                   [Write a proportion.]

Step 3: n x 2 = 4 x 5         [Write the cross products.]

Step 4: n = 10                  [Simplify the expression.]

Step 5: The length of the Honda bike cardboard model is 10 ft.

                               

Related Terms for Proportion

  • Ratio
  • Equation
  • Proportion

 

Additional Links for Proportion