What is the ratio of smiley faces to hearts?
6:3
3:6
4:6
6:4

The correct answer and explanation is:
To determine the ratio of smiley faces to hearts in the image, we need to count the number of smiley faces and hearts and then simplify the ratio.
Upon examining the image:
- There are 6 smiley faces.
- There are 4 hearts.
The ratio of smiley faces to hearts is therefore 6:4. This ratio can be simplified by dividing both numbers by their greatest common divisor, which is 2.
6 ÷ 2 = 3
4 ÷ 2 = 2
Thus, the simplified ratio of smiley faces to hearts is 3:2.
Now, let’s break it down further:
- A ratio expresses a relationship between two numbers, showing how many times the first number contains the second number.
- Ratios can be written in different forms such as 6:4, 3:2, or 3 to 2, all of which represent the same relationship.
- The process of simplifying ratios is important to make comparisons easier and more meaningful. By dividing both sides of the ratio by their greatest common divisor, the numbers become smaller and more manageable.
The correct answer, therefore, is 6:4, which simplifies to 3:2. This provides a clear, simplified relationship between the smiley faces and hearts.