The ratio of eighteen to twenty represents a proportional relationship. This relationship can be expressed in various forms, including a fraction, a decimal, and a percentage. As a fraction, it is written as 18/20. Converting this fraction involves dividing eighteen by twenty, which results in the decimal 0.9. Multiplying the decimal by one hundred yields the percentage equivalent, which is 90%. For example, if a student answers eighteen questions correctly on a twenty-question quiz, their score would be 90%.
Understanding this proportional relationship is vital in many fields, including education, finance, and statistics. In education, it provides a clear indication of performance, allowing educators to assess student comprehension and identify areas needing improvement. In finance, similar calculations are used to determine profit margins, investment returns, and debt ratios. Historically, the understanding of proportions has been crucial for trade, navigation, and scientific advancement, enabling precise measurements and calculations for various practical applications.