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How to Calculate Ratio of Two Numbers

Ratio Formula:

\[ r = \frac{a}{b} \]

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1. What is Ratio Calculation?

The ratio between two quantities represents how many times one value contains another. It's a fundamental mathematical concept used to compare two numbers or measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple ratio formula:

\[ r = \frac{a}{b} \]

Where:

Explanation: The ratio is calculated by dividing quantity A by quantity B. The result can be unitless or maintain units depending on context.

3. Importance of Ratio Calculation

Details: Ratios are essential in mathematics, science, engineering, finance, and everyday life for comparing quantities, proportions, and relationships between values.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both quantities in the same units for a unitless ratio, or in different units to maintain unit relationships. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between ratio and fraction?
A: Mathematically similar, but ratios typically compare two different quantities while fractions represent parts of a whole.

Q2: Can the ratio be greater than 1?
A: Yes, when the numerator is larger than the denominator. Ratios can range from 0 to infinity.

Q3: What if one quantity is zero?
A: Division by zero is undefined. Both quantities must be non-zero positive numbers.

Q4: How is ratio different from percentage?
A: Percentage is a ratio expressed as a fraction of 100. Ratio 1:4 equals 25%.

Q5: When are ratios most useful?
A: When comparing two quantities regardless of their absolute sizes, especially in scaling, mixing, or proportional relationships.

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