Question

How do you solve `\frac{12}{a} = \frac{13}{5}`?

Answer 1

Cross multiply

Explanation:

When two fractions are set equal to each other, you cross multiply

`12` x `5 = 60`

`13` x `a = 13a`

Solve for `a`

`60 = 13a`

`a` = `60/13`

Answer 2

`a=60/13`

Explanation:

When we have one fraction equal to another fraction, we can solve by using `color(blue)"cross-multiplication"`

That is `color(red)(12)/color(blue)(a)=color(blue)(13)/color(red)(5)`

now multiply the terms on either side of an imaginary cross (X) and equate them.
That is multiply the `color(red)"red terms"` together and multiply the `color(blue)"blue terms"` together and equate.

`rArrcolor(blue)(13xxa)=color(red)(12xx5)`

`rArr13a=60`

To solve for a, divide both sides by 13.

`(cancel(13) a)/cancel(13)=60/13`

`rArra=60/13" is the solution"`