Math Problem Statement

If the numbers A and B when rounded to three decimal places are 3.724 and 2.251 respectively. Evaluate the approximation B - A and discuss the error in the approximation.

Solution

Let's begin by approximating the subtraction of BAB - A, using the rounded values provided.

Given:

  • A=3.724A = 3.724 (rounded to three decimal places)
  • B=2.251B = 2.251 (rounded to three decimal places)

Step 1: Perform the subtraction

BA=2.2513.724=1.473B - A = 2.251 - 3.724 = -1.473

Step 2: Discussing the error in the approximation

Since both AA and BB are rounded to three decimal places, there is an inherent uncertainty in their exact values. Let’s explore the range of possible errors:

  • AA could be any number in the range 3.7235A<3.72453.7235 \leq A < 3.7245.
  • BB could be any number in the range 2.2505B<2.25152.2505 \leq B < 2.2515.

Now, we evaluate the worst-case scenario for both over- and under-estimations:

Maximum possible value for BAB - A:

  • Use the maximum possible value of BB and the minimum possible value of AA: BA=2.25153.7235=1.4720B - A = 2.2515 - 3.7235 = -1.4720

Minimum possible value for BAB - A:

  • Use the minimum possible value of BB and the maximum possible value of AA: BA=2.25053.7245=1.4740B - A = 2.2505 - 3.7245 = -1.4740

Thus, the actual value of BAB - A lies in the range: 1.4740BA1.4720-1.4740 \leq B - A \leq -1.4720

The approximation using the rounded values is 1.473-1.473, and the possible error due to rounding is approximately ±0.001\pm 0.001.

Conclusion:

The subtraction BA=1.473B - A = -1.473 is accurate to within ±0.001\pm 0.001, meaning the error in this approximation is no larger than 0.001.

Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. What happens if AA and BB are rounded to fewer decimal places?
  2. How can you calculate absolute and relative errors in such approximations?
  3. Why is it important to consider rounding errors in scientific measurements?
  4. How can rounding errors affect the results of complex calculations involving multiple operations?
  5. What strategies can be used to minimize rounding errors in practical applications?

Tip: When working with approximations, always account for potential rounding errors, especially in cases where many operations are involved, as these errors can accumulate.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Approximation
Rounding
Error Analysis

Formulas

B - A
Error = |Actual Value - Approximated Value|

Theorems

Rounding Error Bound

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12