GED Mathematical Reasoning TestQuantitative Problem Solving with MeasurementEasy
A carpenter is building a ramp for a wheelchair. The ramp must rise 1 foot for every 12 feet of horizontal distance. If the ramp needs to reach a height of 2 feet, what is the length of the ramp's base (horizontal distance)?
- A12 feet
- B6 feet
- C36 feet
- D24 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 24 feet
The problem describes a ratio of rise to horizontal distance. For every 1 foot of rise, there are 12 feet of horizontal distance. If the ramp rises 2 feet, simply multiply the horizontal distance ratio by 2.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is the horizontal distance for a 1-foot rise, not 2 feet.
- B. This would be the horizontal distance if the rise was 0.5 feet.
- C. This would be the horizontal distance for a 3-foot rise.
Ratio in Measurement
A comparison of two quantities, often used to describe a relationship between different dimensions, such as rise over run.
- Expressed as a:b or a/b
- Can be used to scale measurements proportionally
- Important for understanding slopes and gradients
Memory trick: Rise and Run, Proportional Fun