Proportion
We admit that is equivalent to each of the following:
In a particular case is equivalent to or
Definition:
Two numbers are respectively proportional to the non zero numbers m and n if and only if .
Example: Determine three numbers x, y and z respectively proportional to 2, 3 and 4 such that: .
Solution: We have the following system:
where k is a constant to be determined.
we can conclude that x = 2k , y = 3k, z = 4k.
Substitute the values of x, y and z in the equation
Replace by its value; we obtain:
Proportion and algebraic relation:
Two quantities are proportional if one of them is a linear function of the other. In other term, if (linear function or algebraic expression) where a is called the rate of the Proportion or the coefficient of proportionality.
Example:
2
|
5
|
1
|
7
| |
12
|
30
|
6
|
42
|
Verify that the given table is a proportionality table; find its rate and determine its algebraic expression.
Solution:
So This table is a proportionality table.
The rate:
The linear function: ; .
Graphic representation:
The graph of a linear function of proportionality is a straight line passing through the origin of coordinates.
x
|
0
|
1
|
y
|
0
|
6
|