Convert 56 ounces into pounds. Round your answer to the nearest tenth. Hint. There are 16 ounces in one pound. A. 3.5 pounds B. 0.3 pounds C. 2.5 pounds
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. 3.5 pounds
To convert ounces to pounds, divide the number of ounces by the number of ounces in one pound. Since there are 16 ounces in one pound, the formula is:
Pounds = Ounces ÷ 16
For this question:
Pounds = 56 ÷ 16 = 3.5
So, 56 ounces is equal to 3.5 pounds.
This kind of conversion is important in many real-life situations where weight measurements need to be understood in different units. For example, recipes, shipping weights, and personal weight measurements often switch between ounces and pounds. Knowing the relationship between these two units allows for quick and accurate conversions.
The reason we divide by 16 is because one pound is made up of 16 ounces. If you have more than 16 ounces, you have more than one pound. In this case, 56 ounces is more than 3 times 16, since 3 times 16 is 48. Subtracting 48 from 56 gives you 8, so there are 3 full pounds and 8 extra ounces. To convert those 8 ounces into pounds, divide 8 by 16, which gives 0.5. Adding that to the 3 pounds gives you a total of 3.5 pounds.
Rounding to the nearest tenth means you look at the first digit after the decimal point. In this case, the number is already 3.5, so no rounding is needed.
Understanding unit conversions builds a strong foundation in arithmetic and prepares students for more advanced math and science concepts. It also encourages logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Being able to move comfortably between units helps avoid mistakes and ensures clarity, especially in technical fields, trades, and daily activities involving measurements.