Understanding the Law of Multiple Proportions

[babita]

Law of multiple proportions states that "if two elements can combine to form more than one compound, the masses of one element that combine with a fixed mass of the other element, are in the ratio of small whole numbers"
I was thinking how it makes sense. and i concluded this just simply means that atoms can only combine in whole no.s i.e 1/2 of a atom does not combine...1,2,3 atoms will.
am i thinking right?

 

[chemisttree]

I think you're right. Sometimes the ratios are a little tricky. How about Fe₂O₃? Ratio of Fe to O is 1:1.5 but should be expressed as 2:3.