Chapter 6: Problem 27
Solve the given proportion. \(\frac{2}{15}=\frac{24}{x}\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
The value of \( x \) is 180.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the proportion
We have the proportion \( \frac{2}{15} = \frac{24}{x} \). This equation shows that two fractions are equal, and our task is to find the value of \( x \) that makes this true.
02
Cross-Multiply
To solve the proportion, we cross-multiply the fractions. This involves multiplying the numerator of one fraction by the denominator of the other fraction and vice versa, resulting in the equation \( 2 \cdot x = 24 \cdot 15 \).
03
Simplify the Equation
Multiply the numbers on the right-hand side: \( 24 \cdot 15 = 360 \). So the equation becomes \( 2x = 360 \).
04
Solve for x
Divide both sides of the equation by 2 to solve for \( x \). Thus, \( x = \frac{360}{2} \).
05
Compute the Result
Calculate \( \frac{360}{2} = 180 \). Therefore, \( x = 180 \).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Cross-Multiplication
When working with proportions, cross-multiplication is a method that allows us to solve equations involving two equal fractions. In a proportion like \( \frac{2}{15} = \frac{24}{x} \), cross-multiplication involves these steps:
- Multiply the numerator of one fraction by the denominator of the other fraction.
- This gives: \( 2 \cdot x \) and \( 24 \cdot 15 \).
- Equate these products: \( 2x = 360 \).
Solving Equations
Once you have used cross-multiplication to form an equation, solving it can be straightforward. You often end up with a linear equation, like \( 2x = 360 \), which requires basic algebraic skills. Here are some simple steps to solve equations like this:
- Identify the operation around the variable \( x \). Here, \( x \) is multiplied by 2.
- To isolate \( x \), perform the inverse operation, which, in this case, is division.
- Divide both sides by 2: \( x = \frac{360}{2} \).
Numerator and Denominator
A fraction consists of two main components: a numerator and a denominator. Understanding these terms is vital when working with proportions. Consider the fraction \( \frac{2}{15} \):
- The numerator is the top number, which represents part of the whole. Here, 2 is the numerator.
- The denominator is the bottom number, indicating the total parts into which the whole is divided. Here, 15 is the denominator.