Mastering Measurements: Calculating Inches in Piping Like a Pro

How many inches of piping will you use if blueprints call for 8 sections of piping that are each 5 3/4 inches long?

• A. 44 inches
• B. 46 inches
• C. 48 inches
• D. 50 inches

Answer: (B)

To determine the total amount of piping needed, we start by calculating the total length of all sections of piping required as specified in the blueprints. Each section measures 5 3/4 inches, and there are 8 sections in total. First, convert 5 3/4 inches to an improper fraction for easier calculations. The mixed number 5 3/4 can be converted as follows: 5 3/4 = (5 * 4 + 3) / 4 = 23/4 inches. Now, we multiply this length by the number of sections: Total length = Number of sections × Length of each section Total length = 8 × (23/4). When multiplying, we have: 8 × (23/4) = (8 × 23) / 4 = 184 / 4 = 46 inches. Thus, the total length of piping needed is 46 inches. This matches the answer choice of 46 inches and confirms our calculations are accurate. This method emphasizes the importance of understanding fractions and multiplication in solving problems related to measurements.

Knowing how to tackle math problems like calculating total lengths from blueprints is crucial, especially when preparing for assessments like the Workkeys Math Test. Questions might seem tricky at first glance, but with a little methodical thinking, they become pretty straightforward. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Imagine you’re looking at blueprints for a project that calls for eight sections of piping, each measuring 5 3/4 inches long. You might be thinking, “How on earth do I calculate that?” Don’t fret! We’re going to take it step by step.

First off, let’s convert that mixed number of 5 3/4 inches into an improper fraction. This conversion makes the math simpler and ensures we maintain accuracy throughout our calculations. You know what? This is where a lot of students sometimes struggle, but it’s all about understanding fractions!

Here’s how we do it:

[

5 \frac{3}{4} = \frac{5 \times 4 + 3}{4} = \frac{23}{4}

]

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter—the total length needed. With eight sections to calculate, we need to multiply the number of sections (that’s 8) by the length of each section (which is ( \frac{23}{4} )).

The math looks like this:

[

\text{Total length} = \text{Number of sections} \times \text{Length of each section}

]

So plugging in our numbers:

[

8 \times \frac{23}{4} = \frac{8 \times 23}{4} = \frac{184}{4} = 46 \text{ inches}

]

And voilà! We find that the total length of piping needed is 46 inches. Pretty neat, right? So when you encounter such problems, remember to break them down into manageable pieces. Understanding fractions and multiplication can make you a pro at these calculations.

Now, let’s reflect on something for a moment. Why is knowing how to convert mixed numbers into improper fractions so important? Well, consider this: whether you’re planning projects or preparing for tests, life often requires you to work with measurements. So, mastering this skill not only preps you for tests but also equips you for potential real-life scenarios, like home improvement projects or even DIY crafts.

So next time you face a question about measurements, just remember these steps and keep practicing. You got this! And who knows? It might even come in handy at some point in your life beyond the test. Happy calculating!