The length of a paper clip chain is directly proportional to the number of paper clips. If a chain with 72 paper clips has a length of 108 inches, how long is a chain with 16 paper clips?
Directly proportional numbers are numbers that increases or decreases in the same ratio. To solve: 1) State the problem in ratios - Let n be the missing length. 72/108 = 16/n 2) Cross multiply 72*n = 108*16 72n = 1728 3) To get n, divide both sides of the equation by 72 72n/72 = 1728/72 n = 24 Therefore, the chain with 16 paper clips is 24inches To check, substitute the values - 72/108=16/n 72*n = 108*16 72*24 = 1728 1728 = 1728
