Non-proportional

Describing a relationship or quantity where changes in one variable do not result in directly corresponding changes in another. In a non-proportional relationship, the ratio between the variables is not constant. This contrasts with proportional relationships, where variables change at a constant rate, maintaining a consistent ratio. Non-proportionality can manifest in various forms, including exponential, logarithmic, or other complex mathematical relationships. The absence of a fixed ratio distinguishes it from scenarios where values increase or decrease uniformly.

Non-proportional meaning with examples

• The growth of the population followed a non-proportional pattern, experiencing rapid increases in some years and slower growth in others. This made predicting the future population size very complex. The city planners had to adjust their strategies because the resources needed were never clearly defined.
• During the economic downturn, job losses in the service sector showed a non-proportional relationship to overall GDP decline. Specific areas like retail suffered far more than sectors like manufacturing.
• As the intensity of the sunlight changed throughout the day, the temperature increase on the solar panels showed a non-proportional response. The conversion into electricity varied as the panel's resistance changed.
• The price increases for gasoline over time are a clear illustration of a non-proportional market. Despite the increasing availability of oil, consumers still had to purchase fuel.
• The effectiveness of a new medicine on a patient showed a non-proportional response, depending on their age, pre-existing conditions, and genetics. Each person was different.