Dividing in a given ratio

Let's say we're given this question:

Divide £108 in the ratio 4:5.

So, we now add 4 to 5.

4 + 5 = 9.

Now we divide 108 by 9.

108/9 = 12.

Ok, so one unit is 12. We now multiply 4 by 12...

4 x 12 = 48

...And 5 by 12.

5 x 12 = 60

So now we put these into the ratio:

48 : 60

The original question was in pounds, so we add the units:

£48 : £60

And that's our final answer! This is also useful for sharing out money to avoid fights... Test your knowledge on this topic with a quick quiz: