If 36 pears cost $12, how many pears can be purchased for $4?

Question

If 36 pears cost $12, how many pears can be purchased for $4?  

Answer 1

P/4 = 36/12 = 3

P/4 = 3

P = 4(3) = 12 pears for $4 if $12 buys 36

the ratio of dollars to pears is a constant, 3 to 1

12/4 = 3 = 36/12 = 3

pears cost 33 1/3 cents each

for $4 you get 4.00/.33 1/3 = 12

12 x 1/3 dollar = $4

$4 is 1/3 of $12, so you get 1/3 as many pears. 1/3 x 36 = 12 pears

(assuming no volume discounts. Usually you get a better price per unit, the more you buy)