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 $12$.

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.

Thank you for voting!