- Converting between ratios and fractions

Understanding Ratios and Fractions

Ratios and fractions are two ways to represent relationships between numbers. While ratios compare two or more quantities, fractions express a part of a whole. Converting between them is a fundamental math skill.

Converting a Ratio to a Fraction

To convert a ratio to a fraction, use the first number as the numerator and the second as the denominator.

• Example: The ratio 3:5 can be written as the fraction 3/5.
• If the ratio has more than two numbers (e.g., 2:3:4), you can write each part as a fraction of the total sum: 2/(2+3+4), 3/(2+3+4), 4/(2+3+4).

Converting a Fraction to a Ratio

To convert a fraction to a ratio, use the numerator and denominator as the two parts of the ratio.

• Example: The fraction 4/7 can be written as the ratio 4:7.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Identify the numbers in the ratio or fraction.
2. Write the numbers in the appropriate format (ratio or fraction).
3. Simplify if possible, by dividing both numbers by their greatest common factor.

Key Points to Remember

• Ratios compare quantities; fractions represent parts of a whole.
• Always simplify ratios and fractions when possible.
• For ratios with more than two terms, each part can be expressed as a fraction of the total.

Understanding how to convert between ratios and fractions helps in solving problems in mathematics, science, and everyday life.