Math Problem Statement
Elena needs to find a table that will fit three cube-shaped cases, each containing a frog. If the volume of each case is 1,000 cubic inches, could she use a table with a top that measures 212 feet long and 112 feet wide? Explain.
Solution
To determine if Elena's table can fit the three cube-shaped cases, we first need to calculate the dimensions of each case and compare the area required to the table's surface area.
Step 1: Calculate the side length of each cube-shaped case
The volume of a cube is given by the formula:
where is the side length of the cube. Since the volume of each case is 1,000 cubic inches, we can solve for :
Taking the cube root of both sides:
So, each cube-shaped case has side lengths of 10 inches.
Step 2: Find the area required for the three cases
Each case has a footprint (area of the base) equal to:
For three cases, the total area required would be:
Step 3: Convert the table dimensions to inches
The table dimensions are given in feet, so we need to convert them to inches (since 1 foot = 12 inches):
The surface area of the table is then:
Step 4: Compare the areas
The table's area (3,417,216 square inches) is much larger than the area required for the three cases (300 square inches).
Conclusion:
Yes, Elena can use this table, as it is large enough to fit the three cube-shaped cases easily. In fact, it provides much more space than is needed.
Would you like further details on any part of this explanation? Here are five questions that expand on this topic:
- How would the result change if the cases were rectangular instead of cubes?
- What if the cases were stacked vertically—how much height would be required?
- How would you calculate the area needed if there were 10 cases instead of 3?
- How does the relationship between volume and surface area differ for different shapes?
- How could you arrange the cases on the table to optimize space usage?
Tip: When working with cube-shaped objects, the cube root is a key tool to move between volume and side length!
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Geometry
Volume
Area Conversion
Cube Root
Formulas
Volume of a cube: V = s^3
Area of a square: A = s × s
Conversion from feet to inches: 1 foot = 12 inches
Theorems
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Suitable Grade Level
Grades 8-10
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