What does a proportion signify?

A proportion signifies a relationship between two ratios that are equal to one another. In mathematical terms, if you have two fractions, say a/b and c/d, a proportion exists when the two fractions are equivalent, meaning that the cross-products of the fractions are equal (a * d = b * c). This concept is fundamental in many mathematical applications, including solving problems involving scales, rates, and comparisons.

The understanding of proportions is crucial in nursing, where you may need to relate dosages of medication to weight, volume, or concentration – all of which often require the use of proportional reasoning to ensure that the correct amounts are administered to patients.

While other options reference concepts related to ratios or fractions, they do not accurately define what a proportion is. Therefore, the choice that identifies proportions as two ratios that are equal is the most accurate representation of the term.