Understanding Ratios in Math | Explained & Simplified for Beginners

Ratio

A ratio is a comparison between two or more quantities, typically expressed as a fraction or as two numbers separated by a colon

A ratio is a comparison between two or more quantities, typically expressed as a fraction or as two numbers separated by a colon. It shows the relative size or magnitude of one quantity with respect to another. Ratios are used to compare and quantify relationships between different objects, quantities, or units.

In a ratio, the numbers that are being compared are called terms. The first term is usually referred to as the “antecedent” or the “left-hand term,” while the second term is called the “consequent” or the “right-hand term.” For example, in the ratio 2:5, 2 is the antecedent and 5 is the consequent.

Ratios can be simplified by dividing both terms by their greatest common divisor. Simplifying the ratio helps to represent the relationship in its simplest form.

Ratios can be written in different ways. The most common way is the use of a colon (:) to separate the terms, such as 3:4 or 1:2. Ratios can also be expressed as a fraction, such as 3/4 or 1/2. Another way to represent a ratio is using the word “to,” as in “3 to 4” or “1 to 2.” It’s important to maintain the order of the terms when writing ratios.

Ratios are commonly used in various mathematical concepts, such as proportions, rates, and scaling. They play a fundamental role in problem-solving and comparing quantities in a variety of real-life situations, including finance, engineering, and statistics.

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