24 Is 25 Of What Number

24 is 25% of What Number? Solving Percentage Problems

This article will guide you through solving the classic percentage problem: "24 is 25% of what number?". We'll break down the problem step-by-step, explain the underlying mathematical principles, and provide you with a formula you can use to solve similar problems. Understanding percentage calculations is crucial in various aspects of life, from finance and shopping to data analysis and scientific research.

Understanding the Problem

The question "24 is 25% of what number?" is asking us to find the original whole number from which 25% equals 24. This involves understanding the relationship between a percentage, a part of a whole, and the whole itself. We can represent this relationship using a simple equation.

Method 1: Using the Percentage Formula

The most straightforward approach involves using the basic percentage formula:

• Part = Percentage × Whole

In our problem:

• Part = 24
• Percentage = 25% = 0.25 (Remember to convert the percentage to a decimal by dividing by 100)
• Whole = x (This is the unknown number we need to find)

Substituting these values into the formula, we get:

24 = 0.25 * x

To solve for x, divide both sides of the equation by 0.25:

x = 24 / 0.25 = 96

Therefore, 24 is 25% of 96.

Method 2: Using Proportions

Another way to approach this problem is by setting up a proportion:

24/x = 25/100

This proportion states that the ratio of the part (24) to the whole (x) is equal to the ratio of the percentage (25) to 100 (the whole percentage).

To solve for x, cross-multiply:

24 * 100 = 25 * x

2400 = 25x

Now, divide both sides by 25:

x = 2400 / 25 = 96

Again, we find that 24 is 25% of 96.

Checking Your Answer

It's always a good idea to check your answer. We can do this by calculating 25% of 96:

0.25 * 96 = 24

This confirms our answer is correct.

Applying the Formula to Other Percentage Problems

The methods described above can be applied to solve a wide range of percentage problems. Simply substitute the known values into the formula or proportion and solve for the unknown. Remember to always convert percentages to decimals before performing calculations.

For example, if you want to find out what percentage 15 is of 60, you would use the formula:

15 = x * 60

Solving for x will give you the percentage.

Understanding percentages is a fundamental skill with broad applications. Mastering these techniques will equip you to handle various percentage-related calculations with confidence.