$\frac{4}{5}=\frac{}{15}$
We are tasked with solving the proportion \(\frac{4}{5} = \frac{x}{15}\), where \(x\) represents the value in the box. A proportion is an equation stating that two ratios are equal. Our objective is to determine the value of \(x\) that satisfies this equation. We can approach this problem in two ways: by finding equivalent fractions or by using the cross-multiplication method.
A convenient way to solve this is by finding an equivalent fraction. We observe that the denominator of the right-hand fraction, \(15\), is related to the denominator of the left-hand fraction, \(5\). Since \(15 = 5 \times 3\), we know that the denominator has been multiplied by \(3\). To ensure the two fractions remain equal, we must multiply the numerator of the first fraction by the same factor:
\[x = 4 \times 3 = 12\]
Thus, the fraction becomes \(\frac{12}{15}\), which simplifies back to \(\frac{4}{5}\).
Alternatively, we can use the method of cross-multiplication. For a proportion \(\frac{a}{b} = \frac{c}{d}\), the property states that \(a \cdot d = b \cdot c\). Applying this to our equation \(\frac{4}{5} = \frac{x}{15}\):
\[4 \times 15 = 5 \times x\]
\[60 = 5x\]
To solve for \(x\), we divide both sides of the equation by \(5\):
\[x = \frac{60}{5} = 12\]
Both methods confirm the same result, and we find that the value to be placed in the box is \(12\).
Ratios are essential in everyday life, such as scaling recipes. If a recipe for 5 people requires 4 cups of flour, and you are hosting a party for 15 people, you can use a proportion \(\frac{4}{5} = \frac{x}{15}\) to find that you need 12 cups of flour. This ensures the correct balance of ingredients is maintained regardless of the number of guests.