Question

Compare the ratios 2 : 3, 5 : 7, 3 : 4, 5 : 9. Which one is the smallest?

• A. 5 : 9
• B. 3 : 4
• C. 2 : 3
• D. 5 : 7

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 5 : 9

To compare the ratios, convert each into fractions (or decimals):

• $(2:3 = \frac{2}{3} \approx 0.667)$

• $(5:7 = \frac{5}{7} \approx 0.714)$

• $(3:4 = \frac{3}{4} = 0.75)$

• $(5:9 = \frac{5}{9} \approx 0.556)$

  Comparison:

  0.556 < 0.667 < 0.714 < 0.75
  Smallest Ratio:

$=\boxed{5 : 9}$