The question asks for the ratio of the distance to the shops (7 km) to the distance to school (4 km).

The correct ratio is:

$\text{Distance to the shops} : \text{Distance to school} = 7 : 4$

Thus, the correct option is:

7 : 4

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

1. How would the ratio change if the distance to the shops increased to 10 km?
2. What would the ratio be if the distance to the school was halved?
3. Can you express the ratio $7 : 4$ as a fraction and a decimal?
4. What is the inverse of the ratio $7 : 4$?
5. How do you simplify a ratio if both numbers are divisible by a common factor?

Tip: Always make sure to compare the quantities in the same order as requested in the problem!