Mathematics ACT Aspire Practice Test

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What defines a proportion in mathematics?

An equation that sets two numbers equal
An equation stating that two ratios are equivalent
A formula for calculating area
A calculation involving percentages

The correct answer is: An equation stating that two ratios are equivalent

A proportion is specifically defined as an equation that asserts the equivalence of two ratios. This means that if you have two fractions, for example, a/b and c/d, a proportion indicates that a/b = c/d. This concept is fundamental in mathematics because it allows for the comparison of different quantities in a consistent way. Understanding proportions is critical for various applications, including scaling in geometry, solving problems involving similar figures, and even in practical scenarios involving direct relationships, such as recipes or financial calculations where quantities need to be adjusted while maintaining their relationships. The other options describe different mathematical concepts but do not accurately capture the definition of a proportion. An equation that sets two numbers equal pertains to equality rather than ratio comparison, a formula for calculating area relates to geometry, and a calculation involving percentages deals specifically with parts of a whole rather than the relationship between two ratios. Thus, only the statement regarding the equivalence of two ratios properly defines a proportion.