What is a ratio?

A ratio is defined as a comparison of two quantities, which signifies the relationship between them in terms of size, quantity, or number. It expresses how many times one value contains or is contained within the other. This concept is fundamental in various contexts, such as in mathematics, science, and real-life situations, where understanding relationships between different quantities is essential.

For instance, if there are 4 apples and 2 oranges, the ratio of apples to oranges can be written as 4:2, which simplifies to 2:1. This indicates that there are twice as many apples as oranges.

While the other definitions may relate to aspects of mathematical relationships or calculations, they do not encapsulate the specific meaning of a ratio. A sum of two parts refers to addition rather than a comparison. A form of a fraction might imply a representation of parts of a whole, but it lacks the direct comparative aspect of a ratio. Expressing a percentage pertains to a specific format of division and scaling rather than a straightforward comparison. Thus, understanding a ratio as a direct comparison of two quantities captures its essence accurately.