Worked Example 5: Square Relationships

Part of Proportion · Section 11 of 16

Study NotesUnit: NumberGCSE

This study notes covers Worked Example 5: Square Relationships within Proportion for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Proportion in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 11 of 16 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Worked Example 5: Square Relationships

y is directly proportional to x². When x = 3, y = 18. Find y when x = 5.

Solution

y ∝ x², so y = kx²

When x = 3, y = 18: 18 = k × 3²

18 = k × 9

k = 18 ÷ 9 = 2

So y = 2x²

When x = 5: y = 2 × 5² = 2 × 25 = 50

Answer: y = 50

Practice questions for Proportion

y is directly proportional to x. Which equation could represent this relationship?

  • A. y = k/x
  • B. y = kx
  • C. y = k − x
  • D. y = x²
1 markfoundation

Explain how you can tell from a graph whether two quantities are in direct or inverse proportion.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

Proportion Symbol
∝ means 'proportional to' Examples: y ∝ x (y is proportional to x) y ∝ 1/x (y is inversely proportional to x)
Recipe Application
Recipe for 4 people uses 300g flour How much for 10 people? Flour ∝ People (direct) F = kP 300 = k × 4, so k = 75 For 10 people: F = 75 × 10 = 750g

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