Understanding Proportions: Solving the Apple Problem

To solve this proportion word problem, we can use the concept of proportionality. If 4 apples cost $6, then we can set up a proportion:

$\frac{4}{6} = \frac{7}{x}$

Here, x represents the cost of 7 apples. By cross multiplying, we find that 4x = 42, which simplifies to x = 10.50. Therefore, 7 apples would cost $10.50.

Understanding proportions is crucial in solving real-life mathematical problems, providing a foundation for more complex algebraic concepts.