Ratio Simplifier Calculator
Simplify ratios to their simplest form
Tip: Enter whole numbers in both fields to simplify ratios like 3:6 to 1:2, or 16:20 to 4:5.
Simplified Ratio
Original Ratio
16:20
Simplified Ratio
4:5
Calculation Steps:
- GCD of 16 and 20 is 4
- 16 ÷ 4 = 4
- 20 ÷ 4 = 5
Understanding Ratio Simplification
What is a Ratio?
A ratio compares two quantities showing how many times one value contains or is contained within the other. Ratios are written with a colon (:) between the numbers, like 3:1.
Why Simplify Ratios?
Simplified ratios are easier to understand and work with. They maintain the same relationship between quantities but use the smallest possible whole numbers.
How to Simplify Ratios
- Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of both numbers in the ratio
- Divide both numbers by the GCD
- Write the simplified ratio using the results
Example: To simplify 18:24, find GCD of 18 and 24 (which is 6), then divide both by 6 to get 3:4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I simplify ratios with decimals?
Yes, but it's often easier to convert decimals to whole numbers first. Multiply both terms by 10, 100, etc. to eliminate decimals before simplifying.
What if my simplified ratio has fractions?
Ratios are typically expressed with whole numbers. If you get fractions, multiply both terms by the denominator to eliminate them (e.g., 1.5:2 becomes 3:4 when multiplied by 2).
How is ratio simplification different from fractions?
The process is similar (both use GCD), but ratios compare quantities while fractions represent parts of a whole. Ratios maintain the relationship even when the actual quantities change.