Build a three-term ratio from two equations: If A = B/3 and B = C/2 (all positive), express the simplified ratio A : B : C, showing the substitution path from C to A.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1 : 3 : 6

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Expressing all variables in terms of one helps create a clean ratio. Here, A is related to B, and B is related to C. Substituting stepwise leads to a direct representation of A and B in terms of C, which can then be scaled.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • A = B/3.
  • B = C/2.
  • All quantities are positive so ratios are meaningful.


Concept / Approach:
Substitute B from the second equation into the first to express A in terms of C. Then write A : B : C and clear any fractions using a common multiple to get integer terms.



Step-by-Step Solution:

B = C/2.A = B/3 = (C/2)/3 = C/6.Therefore A : B : C = C/6 : C/2 : C.Cancel C (common factor) to get 1/6 : 1/2 : 1.Multiply all by 6 to clear denominators ⇒ 1 : 3 : 6.


Verification / Alternative check:
Take C = 6. Then B = 3 and A = 1. Check: A = B/3 = 1, B = C/2 = 3—consistent.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
2 : 3 : 6 doubles only A incorrectly; 3 : 2 : 6 swaps terms; 3 : 1 : 2 and 1 : 2 : 3 do not satisfy the defining equations.



Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to divide by 3 after substituting for B, or mixing the order of A, B, C when forming the ratio.



Final Answer:
1 : 3 : 6

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