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How to Solve Algebra 1 Proportions

In algebra, proportions are specialized equations used to compare two ratios. Ratios, such as 4:1, are used to compare two quantities by dividing them. For example, if the numerical comparison is four wins and one loss in a season, the resulting ratio is 4:1, or 4/1. Ratios can be thought of as comparing two different items; proportions, then, state that two proposed ratios are equal. They are used in order to determine a missing numerator between two equal fractions.

Instructions

    • 1

      Write down your two ratios and separate them with an equals sign. Proportion fractions always equal each other. For example, 3/4 = x/20.

    • 2

      Find a common denominator between the two fractions. One way of accomplishing this is to discover a number into which both can evenly divide. Regarding the denominators in the sample problem, they both divide evenly into 20. However, If such a number is not as easy to discover, you may multiply the denominators together to create a common number.

    • 3

      Multiply the numerator by the number used to transform the denominator. In this case, the original proportion was 3/4 = x/20, and the common denominator is 20. Therefore, the denominator as well as the numerator in the first ratio must be multiplied by five to create 15/20.

    • 4

      Finalize your algebraic proportion. After multiplying 3/4 by 5/5, the first proportion is 15/20, making the new proportion 15/20 = x/20. Therefore, the final answer is 3/4 = x/20; x = 15.

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