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Solve proportions using the Rule of Three for both direct and inverse proportions. Find the unknown value in A : B = C : X.

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Solve proportions using the Rule of Three for both direct and inverse proportions. Find the unknown value in A : B = C : X.

Updated: 2026-03-31

What is the Rule of Three?

The Rule of Three is a mathematical method for solving proportions. Given three known values, it finds the fourth unknown value by setting up a proportion equation.

Direct vs Inverse Proportion

In a direct proportion, as one quantity increases, the other also increases at the same rate. The formula is:

Direct: X = (B × C) / A
A : B = C : X → A × X = B × C

In an inverse proportion, as one quantity increases, the other decreases. The formula is:

Inverse: X = (A × B) / C
A × B = C × X

Real-World Examples

Direct proportion: If 5 apples cost ₹100, how much do 8 apples cost? (A=5, B=100, C=8 → X=160)

Inverse proportion: If 6 workers finish a job in 10 days, how long would 4 workers take? (A=6, B=10, C=4 → X=15 days)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rule of Three?

The Rule of Three is a method to find an unknown value when three values are known and related proportionally. If A:B = C:X, then X = (B × C) / A.