What is a ratio?

A ratio is a comparison of two quantities. It shows how much of one thing there is compared to another. Ratios can be expressed in various ways, such as fractions, decimals, or percentages. Ratios are essential in many fields, including mathematics, science, finance, and everyday life.

Types of Ratios:

• Simple Ratio: A comparison of two quantities using division. For example, if there are 3 red balls and 5 blue balls, the ratio of red to blue balls is 3:5.
• Compound Ratio: Involves more than two quantities. For example, if a recipe calls for 2 cups of flour for every 3 cups of sugar, the compound ratio of flour to sugar is 2:3.
• Rates: Ratios involving different units. For example, speed can be expressed as a ratio of distance traveled to time taken.

Usage of Ratios:

Ratios are used in various real-life applications, such as cooking recipes, financial analysis, and construction measurements. They help in comparing and analyzing different quantities to make informed decisions. Ratios are also used in proportion problems, where finding an unknown quantity can be based on the given ratio of known quantities.