Find the ratio of the mean proportional between 1.6 and 3.6 to the third proportional of 5 and 8.
2 : 15
5 : 16
3 : 16
4 : 15
Correct answer: 3 : 16
Solution
Mean proportional of 1.6 and 3.6 = sqrt(1.6 x 3.6) = sqrt(5.76) = 2.4. Third proportional of 5 and 8: if a:b = b:x then x = b^2/a = 64/5 = 12.8. Ratio = 2.4/12.8 = 24/128 = 3/16 = 3:16.