An infant weighs 6 pounds 5 ounces at birth. What is the weigh in ounces
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert the infant’s weight from pounds and ounces to just ounces:
Step 1: Understand the units
- 1 pound = 16 ounces
Step 2: Convert pounds to ounces
- 6 pounds × 16 ounces = 96 ounces
Step 3: Add the extra ounces
- 96 ounces + 5 ounces = 101 ounces
✅ Final Answer: 101 ounces
📘 Explanation
To convert the birth weight of an infant from pounds and ounces into a single unit—ounces—it is necessary to understand how the imperial system works. In this system, weight is often measured in pounds (lbs) and ounces (oz). There are 16 ounces in 1 pound. This conversion factor allows us to translate weight from pounds into ounces by simple multiplication.
In this case, the infant’s birth weight is 6 pounds and 5 ounces. To express this total in ounces, begin by converting the 6 pounds into ounces. Since each pound contains 16 ounces, multiplying 6 by 16 gives us the weight in ounces for just the pounds part:
6 × 16 = 96 ounces
Next, add the 5 ounces that were already given separately. This is because the original weight had both pounds and additional ounces:
96 + 5 = 101 ounces
So, the total weight of the infant is 101 ounces. Converting weights into a single unit like this makes calculations, comparisons, and record-keeping much easier, especially in medical or nutritional settings where precision is important. It also helps when using formulas or instruments that require one consistent unit.
Understanding conversions between pounds and ounces is useful not only for weighing people but also for cooking, shipping, and many other everyday activities where accurate weight measurement is necessary. Mastering these simple conversions strengthens basic math skills and boosts confidence in practical applications.
