What is the third term (x) in the proportion 27:15 = x:360?

To solve for the third term (x) in the proportion 27:15 = x:360, you can use the property of cross-multiplication, which states that in a proportion, the product of the means is equal to the product of the extremes.

In this case, the means are 15 and x, while the extremes are 27 and 360. Setting up the equation based on cross-multiplication gives:

27 * 360 = 15 * x.

Calculating the left side:

27 * 360 = 9720.

Now, you can set up the equation:

9720 = 15 * x.

To find x, divide both sides by 15:

x = 9720 / 15.

Calculating that gives:

x = 648.

Thus, the value of x, which is the third term in the proportion, is 648. This demonstrates how proportions can be solved through cross-multiplication and simple arithmetic. Understanding this method is invaluable when tackling similar problems in mathematics or technical subjects related to engineering concepts.