Chapter SH, Problem 2RAP

Solution

To write the ratio $85:34$ in simplest form.

  $5:2$

Given:

The ratio, $85:34$ .

Concept Used:

The ratio of two numbers is obtained by dividing the first number by the second number.

Calculation:

In order to write the ratio $85:34$ into simplest form, divide the first number by the second number and reduce the fraction in simplest form by cancelling out the common factors from both numbers as shown below

  $\begin{array}{c}85:34=\frac{85}{34}\\ =\frac{5\cdot 17}{2\cdot 17}\\ =\frac{5}{2}\\ =5:2\end{array}$

Thus, the give ratio in simplified form can be expressed as $5:2$ .