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4 Number Ratio Calculator

Ratio Simplification Formula:

\[ a : b : c : d = \frac{a}{g} : \frac{b}{g} : \frac{c}{g} : \frac{d}{g} \]

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1. What is a 4 Number Ratio Calculator?

Definition: This calculator simplifies a ratio of four numbers to its smallest whole number form by dividing each term by their greatest common divisor (GCD).

Purpose: It helps simplify complex ratios in mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and other fields where proportional relationships are important.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ a : b : c : d = \frac{a}{g} : \frac{b}{g} : \frac{c}{g} : \frac{d}{g} \]

Where:

Explanation: The calculator finds the largest number that divides all four terms exactly, then divides each term by this GCD to get the simplified ratio.

3. Importance of Ratio Simplification

Details: Simplified ratios are easier to understand and work with, especially in stoichiometric calculations, mixing ratios, and proportional scaling.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter four positive whole numbers. The calculator will return the simplified ratio and the GCD used to simplify it.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if my numbers have decimals?
A: Multiply all numbers by the same factor to convert them to whole numbers before entering.

Q2: Can this calculator handle more than four numbers?
A: No, this is specifically for four-number ratios. For different numbers of terms, use our other ratio calculators.

Q3: What if my numbers have a GCD of 1?
A: The ratio is already in simplest form and will be returned unchanged.

Q4: Can I use negative numbers?
A: No, the calculator only accepts positive integers for ratio terms.

Q5: How is the GCD calculated?
A: Using the Euclidean algorithm, which efficiently finds the greatest common divisor through successive division.

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