Proportionality Problems

In mathematics, proportionality indicates that two variables are related in a linear manner. If one number doubles in size, so does the other; if one of the variables diminishes to 1/10 of its former value, so does the other.The symbol for proportionality resemble a stretched-out, lowercase Greek letter alpha . When this symbol appear that two quantities or variables, it is read "is proportional to" or "varies in direct proportion with." Thus, the expression x alpha y is read " x is proportional to y " or " x varies in direct proportion with y ." In this condition, as long as x and y do not attain values of zero, the quotient x / y is always equal to the same value k , which is called the proportionality constant. (source: wiki)

Example proportionality problems:

Proportionality problem 1:

Find a if a/4= 3/2.

Proportionality  solution:

By using property 1:

a/4=3/2

(a) (2) = (4) (3)

2a = 12

Dividing both side by 2

a=6

Therefore the value of a=6

Proportionality problem 2:

Is 6: 4 = 3: 2 a proportion?

No. If this were a proportion, Property 1 would produce

(6) (2) = (4) (3)

12   = 12, this is true. It is a proportion.

Practice proportionality problems:

Practice proportionality problem 1:

Janette's car uses 9 gallons to go 200 miles.

a) How many gallons will she use to go 400 miles?

B) How many gallons will she use to go 600 miles?

c) How far can she drive with 36 gallons?

(a)18

(b) 27

(c)800 miles

Practice proportionality problem 2:

Carlos makes $25 in 4 hours.

a) How much will he make in 2 hours?

b) How much will he make in 20 hours?

c) How much will he make in 22 hours?

(a)$12.50

(b)$125

(c)$137.50


practice proportionality problem 3:

Which is a better value?

a) 15 ounces for $ 9.25 or 30 ounces for $18.00?

b) 15 ounces for $ 9.25 or 5 ounces for $3.29?

Answer:  ( a )30 ounces for $18.

( b )15 ounces for $9.25.

practice proportionality problem 4:

6 bottles cost $7.00.

a) How much will 18 bottles cost?

b) How much will 15 bottles cost?

c) How much will 27 bottles cost?

d) How many bottles can you buy with $10.50?

Answer:   ( a ) $21

( b ) $17.50

( c ) $31.50

( d ) 9