Final answer:
To determine the missing number in the ratios 4 : 3 = x : 21, we create and solve a proportion through cross multiplication. We find that the missing number is 28, making the equivalent ratios 4 : 3 = 28 : 21.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the missing number that makes the ratios equivalent, we set up a proportion where the two ratios equal each other:
4 : 3 = x : 21
Next, we write the proportion as two fractions and set them equal to each other:
4/3 = x/21
Now we cross multiply to find the value of x:
4 * 21 = 3 * x
84 = 3x
To solve for x, we divide both sides of the equation by 3:
x = 84 / 3
x = 28
Therefore, the missing number that makes the ratios equivalent is 28, and the equivalent ratios are 4 : 3 = 28 : 21.