Unit rates: word problems

Learning Objectives Define ratio, rate, and unit rate. Identify the two quantities needed to form a rate from a word problem. Set up a ratio correctly to calculate a unit rate. Calculate unit rates by dividing the numerator by the denominator. Interpret the meaning of a unit rate in the context of a word problem. Use unit rates to compare different options and solve real-world problems. Ever wonder which cereal box is the best deal at the grocery store? 🥣 Or how fast a cheetah runs? We'll learn how to figure out these kinds of questions! This lesson will teach you how to understand and calculate unit rates from word problems. Unit rates help us compare different things fairly and make smart decisions in our daily lives. Real-World Applications Comparing prices at...

TermDefinitionExample RatioA comparison of two quantities by division. It can be written as a:b, a/b, or 'a to b'.The ratio of 3 apples to 2 bananas is 3:2. RateA ratio that compares two quantities with different units.Driving 120 miles in 2 hours is a rate of 120 miles/2 hours. Unit RateA rate where the second quantity (the denominator) is 1 unit. It tells you 'how much per one' of something.If you drive 60 miles in 1 hour, your unit rate (speed) is 60 miles per hour. NumeratorThe top number in a fraction or ratio, representing the quantity being divided.In the rate 120 miles/2 hours, 120 miles is the numerator. DenominatorThe bottom number in a fraction or ratio, representing the quantity by which the numerator is divided.In the rate 120 miles/2 hours, 2 hours is the...

Calculating Unit Rate $$ \text{Unit Rate} = \frac{\text{Quantity 1}}{\text{Quantity 2 (where you want 1 unit)}} $$ To find a unit rate, divide the first quantity by the second quantity. The second quantity will then become 1 unit, and the result will be 'Quantity 1 per 1 unit of Quantity 2'. Setting Up a Rate from Words $$ \text{If the problem asks for 'A per B', set up the ratio as } \frac{A}{B} $$ The quantity that comes before 'per' or 'for each' usually goes in the numerator, and the quantity that comes after goes in the denominator. This helps ensure your unit rate has the desired 'per 1' unit.