A proportion is a statement that two ratios are equal. It compares two sets of quantities. In a proportion, the two ratios have to be equivalent, meaning that the fractions must simplify down to the same value. For example, "2/3 = 4/6" is a proportion, because both sides of the equation simplify down to 2/3. This shows that the ratio of 2 to 3 is equal to the ratio of 4 to 6.
Proportions are often used in mathematics to solve for unknown quantities. By setting up a proportion, you can use the information you have to find missing values. For example, if you know that a recipe calls for 2 cups of flour for every 3 cups of sugar, and you have 6 cups of sugar, you can use a proportion to find out how much flour you need.
Proportions can also be used in real-life situations, such as calculating distances on maps or determining the size of objects in a photograph. They are a useful tool for comparing and analyzing different quantities and can help you solve a variety of problems.