1. **Problem statement:** Express the given ratio in simplest form. 2. **Formula and rules:** To simplify a ratio, divide both terms by their greatest common divisor (GCD). 3. **Step-by-step process:** - Find the GCD of the two numbers. - Divide both terms of the ratio by the GCD. - Write the simplified ratio. 4. **Example:** Suppose the ratio is $24:36$. - Find GCD of 24 and 36, which is 12. - Divide both terms by 12: $$\frac{24}{\cancel{12}} : \frac{36}{\cancel{12}} = 2 : 3$$ - The simplest form is $2:3$. 5. **Explanation:** Simplifying ratios helps compare quantities easily by reducing them to their smallest whole number terms. Since no specific ratios were provided, this is the general method to simplify any ratio.