A proportion is a statement of equality between two or more ratios. For example,
This proportion is read as, “3 is to 4 as 6 is to 8.”
Extremes and Means
The first and last terms of the proportion (the 3 and 8 in this example) are called the extremes. The second and third terms (the 4 and 6 in this example) are called the means. In any proportion, the product of the extremes is equal to the product of the means.
In the proportion 2:3 = 4:6, the product of the extremes, 2 × 6, is 12; the product of the means, 3 × 4, is also 12. An inspection of any proportion will show this to be true.
Solving Proportions
Normally when solving a proportion, three quantities will be known, and the fourth will be unknown. To solve for the unknown, multiply the two numbers along the diagonal and then divide by the third number.
Example: Solve for X in the proportion given below.
First, multiply 65 × 100: 65 × 100 = 6500
Next, divide by 80: 6500 ÷ 80 = 81.25
Therefore, X = 81.25.
Example: An airplane flying a distance of 300 miles used 24 gallons of gasoline. How many gallons will it need to travel 750 miles?
The ratio here is: “miles to gallons;” therefore, the proportion is set up as:
Therefore, to fly 750 miles, 60 gallons of gasoline will be required.
Flight Mechanic Recommends
Rod Machado's Private Pilot Handbook -Flight Literacy recommends Rod Machado's products because he takes what is normally dry and tedious and transforms it with his characteristic humor, helping to keep you engaged and to retain the information longer. (see all of Rod Machado's Products).