x

9

A : B = C : x, solved as x = (B × C) ÷ A

How it works

A proportion states that two ratios are equal. Cross-multiplying both sides and rearranging gives x = (B × C) ÷ A.

Formula: A : B = C : x, so x = (B × C) ÷ A

Examples

Scaling a recipe

If 2 cups of flour need 3 eggs, how many eggs for 6 cups? 2 : 3 = 6 : x gives x = (3 × 6) ÷ 2 = 9.

Things to keep in mind

  • A cannot be zero, since it is the calculation's denominator.
  • Enter values of zero or more: like the Ratio Calculator, this treats A, B and C as quantities being compared, which is not meaningful for a negative value.

Frequently asked questions

How do I solve a proportion?

Cross-multiply: in A : B = C : x, multiply B by C and divide by A. For 2 : 3 = 6 : x, that is (3 × 6) ÷ 2 = 9.

How is this different from the Ratio Calculator?

The Ratio Calculator simplifies one ratio to its lowest terms. This calculator solves for an unknown value that makes two ratios equal to each other.