Boys to girls ratio from a percent relation: In a school, 10% of the boys equals one-fourth of the girls. What is the ratio of boys to girls?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 5 : 2

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We translate a sentence connecting percentages of groups into an algebraic relation to obtain a ratio.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • B = number of boys; G = number of girls.
  • 10% of boys = one-fourth of girls ⇒ 0.10B = 0.25G.

Concept / Approach:
Rearrange to B/G by isolating terms.


Step-by-Step Solution:

0.10B = 0.25G.B/G = 0.25 / 0.10 = 2.5.Express as a ratio: 2.5 : 1 = 5 : 2.

Verification / Alternative check:
Pick numbers matching 5 : 2, e.g., B = 50, G = 20. Then 10% of boys = 5; one-fourth of girls = 5. Condition satisfied.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 3 : 2, 2 : 1, 4 : 3, 5 : 3 do not satisfy 0.10B = 0.25G.

Common Pitfalls:
Inverting the ratio (2 : 5) or mixing percent with fraction improperly.


Final Answer:
5 : 2

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