Relating Ratios and Functions

# Relating Ratios and Functions

GCSE(F),

A ratio can be turned into a function. To turn a ratio into a function, one side of the ratio must be set to 1. A ratio of 3 : 7 can be turned into a ratio of 1 : frac(7)(3).

With one side of the ratio set to 1, it can now be mapped as x -> frac(7)(3)x, or described as f(x) = frac(7)(3)x. The function can be drawn as a graph to show, for example, conversion rates between units (miles and kilometres) or currencies.

The gradient of the graph gives the ratio. The graph will also pass through (0,0).

## Examples

1. A ratio 1 : 5 is mapped as a function, and plotted onto a graph. What is the gradient of the graph?.

Answer: 5

The function will be plotted as x -> 5x. The gradient is given by frac(text(up))(text(along)) = frac(5)(1).

2. A courier company charges a flat rate of £10, then £1.20 per kilometre. Can this be written as a ratio? Explain your answer.

Answer: No. When one value of a ratio is zero, then all values of the ratio are zero.

If the charges were plotted as a graph against distance, the graph would not pass through the origin (0,0). This is not a ratio.