Chapter 7.1, Problem 5CE

To determine

The ratio a:b is same as b:a

Answer to Problem 5CE

Ratio $a:b$ is never equal to $b:a$

Explanation of Solution

Given information:

The given ratio is $a:b$

A number and its inverse is never equal.

Let us take an example.

Taking $a=2andb=1$

So,

  $a:b=2:1=2$

Whereas

  $\begin{array}{c}b:a=1:2\\ =\frac{1}{2}\\ =0.5\end{array}$

But $2\ne 0.5$

Therefore, ratio $a:b$ is never equal to $b:a$