Comparison of Answer Choices

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 63 views

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Problem Overview

A rectangular pan has a length that is $\frac{4}{3}$ the width. The total area of the pan is $432 \text{ in}^2$ . We need to find the width of the cake pan.

Step 1: Define the Relationship Between Length and Width

Let's denote the width of the pan as $w$ . Since the length is $\frac{4}{3}$ the width, we can express the length as $\frac{4}{3}w$ .

Step 2: Calculate the Area of the Pan

The area of a rectangle is given by the formula $A = lw$ . In this case, the area is $432 \text{ in}^2$ , and the length is $\frac{4}{3}w$ . We can substitute these values into the formula:

432 = \left(\frac{4}{3}w\right)w

Step 3: Simplify the Equation

To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 3 to eliminate the fraction:

1296 = 4w^2

Step 4: Solve for $w$

Next, we can divide both sides by 4 to isolate $w^2$ :

324 = w^2

Now, we can take the square root of both sides to find $w$ :

w = \sqrt{324}

Step 5: Calculate the Width

To calculate the width, we can simplify the square root:

w = \sqrt{324} = \sqrt{(18)^2} = 18

Conclusion

The width of the cake pan is $\boxed{18}$ inches.

Discussion

This problem involves a simple algebraic equation to find the width of the pan. The key concept is to define the relationship between the length and width, calculate the area, and then solve for the width. The solution requires basic algebraic manipulations, including simplifying equations and solving for variables.

Comparison of Answer Choices

Let's compare the calculated width with the answer choices:

A. 10.4 in.
B. 13.9 in.
C. 18 in.
D. 24 in.

The calculated width, 18 in., matches answer choice C.

Final Thoughts

This problem demonstrates the importance of defining relationships between variables and using algebraic equations to solve problems. By following the steps outlined above, we can find the width of the cake pan and understand the underlying math concepts.

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Q: What is the relationship between the length and width of the pan?

A: The length of the pan is $\frac{4}{3}$ the width.

Q: How do we calculate the area of the pan?

A: The area of a rectangle is given by the formula $A = lw$ . In this case, the area is $432 \text{ in}^2$ , and the length is $\frac{4}{3}w$ . We can substitute these values into the formula:

432 = \left(\frac{4}{3}w\right)w

Q: How do we simplify the equation?

A: To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 3 to eliminate the fraction:

1296 = 4w^2

Q: How do we solve for $w$ ?

A: Next, we can divide both sides by 4 to isolate $w^2$ :

324 = w^2

Now, we can take the square root of both sides to find $w$ :

w = \sqrt{324}

Q: What is the final answer for the width of the pan?

A: The width of the pan is $\boxed{18}$ inches.

Q: Why is it important to define relationships between variables?

A: Defining relationships between variables is crucial in solving problems. In this case, we defined the relationship between the length and width of the pan, which allowed us to calculate the area and solve for the width.

Q: What are some common algebraic manipulations used in solving equations?

A: Some common algebraic manipulations used in solving equations include:

Multiplying both sides by a constant to eliminate fractions
Dividing both sides by a constant to isolate variables
Taking the square root of both sides to find the value of a variable
Simplifying equations by combining like terms

Q: How can I apply these concepts to real-world problems?

A: These concepts can be applied to a wide range of real-world problems, including:

Calculating the area and perimeter of buildings and other structures
Determining the volume of containers and other objects
Solving problems involving rates and ratios
Modeling real-world situations using algebraic equations

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations include:

Failing to simplify equations before solving
Making errors when multiplying or dividing both sides by a constant
Forgetting to check the validity of solutions
Failing to consider multiple solutions to an equation

Q: How can I practice and improve my skills in solving equations?

A: You can practice and improve your skills in solving equations by:

Working through example problems and exercises
Practicing with different types of equations and variables
Using online resources and tools to help you solve equations
Seeking help from teachers, tutors, or classmates when you get stuck.