1. What is a Ratio?

A ratio is a quantitative relationship between two numbers showing how many times the first number contains the second. Ratios are unitless and are used to compare quantities of the same dimension.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple ratio equation:

Where:

• \( a \) — First term (unitless)
• \( b \) — Second term (unitless)
• \( r \) — Resulting ratio (unitless)

Explanation: The ratio represents how many times the first number contains the second number.

3. Importance of Ratio Calculation

Details: Ratios are fundamental in mathematics, science, engineering, finance, and everyday life for comparing quantities, proportions, and rates.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter two positive numbers to calculate their ratio. Both values must be greater than zero for meaningful results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a ratio of 1 mean?
A: A ratio of 1 means the two quantities are equal in value.

Q2: Can ratios be greater than 1?
A: Yes, when the numerator (a) is larger than the denominator (b), the ratio will be greater than 1.

Q3: What's the difference between a ratio and a fraction?
A: While mathematically similar, ratios compare parts to parts, while fractions compare parts to wholes.

Q4: How are ratios expressed?
A: Ratios can be expressed as fractions (a/b), with a colon (a:b), or as "a to b".

Q5: Can ratios be simplified?
A: Yes, ratios can be simplified by dividing both terms by their greatest common divisor.