Type the missing number to complete the proportion: 60 chairs at 15 tables = ___ chairs at 3 tables
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to find the missing number in a proportion between chairs and tables. We need to calculate how many chairs correspond to 3 tables based on the given information that 60 chairs are for 15 tables.
Answer
The missing number of chairs at 3 tables is $12$.
Answer for screen readers
The missing number of chairs at 3 tables is $12$.
Steps to Solve
-
Set up the proportion
The problem gives us the relationship between chairs and tables. We can set it up as a proportion:
$$ \frac{60 \text{ chairs}}{15 \text{ tables}} = \frac{x \text{ chairs}}{3 \text{ tables}} $$ -
Cross-multiply
To solve for $x$, we will cross-multiply:
$$ 60 \text{ chairs} \times 3 \text{ tables} = 15 \text{ tables} \times x \text{ chairs} $$
This simplifies to:
$$ 180 = 15x $$ -
Solve for x
Now, we need to isolate $x$ by dividing both sides by 15:
$$ x = \frac{180}{15} $$ -
Calculate the result
Perform the division:
$$ x = 12 $$
The missing number of chairs at 3 tables is $12$.
More Information
This calculation shows that for every 15 tables, there are 60 chairs, which means that for just 3 tables, you need only 12 chairs. It demonstrates the principles of direct proportion.
Tips
- Incorrect cross-multiplication - Make sure to multiply the corresponding values correctly.
- Forgetting to simplify - Always simplify your answer to the lowest terms if possible.