Math Problem Statement

A list of numbers ordered from least value to greatest value is shown. One number is missing. The list includes 18/5, 3.71, _____, √17. Which number could be the missing number? Options: (a) 4.5, (b) 3.8%, (c) 57/15, (d) (3.9)^2.

Solution

Let's analyze the question from the uploaded image:

The problem asks to find the missing number in the list of numbers ordered from least to greatest. The given numbers are:

  • 185\frac{18}{5},
  • 3.713.71,
  • a missing number,
  • 17\sqrt{17}.

The options for the missing number are:

  1. 4.54.5
  2. 3.8%3.8 \% (interpreted as 0.038)
  3. 5715\frac{57}{15}
  4. (3.9)2(3.9)^2

Step 1: Evaluate all the given numbers

  1. 185=3.6\frac{18}{5} = 3.6
  2. 3.713.71 is already in decimal form.
  3. 174.123\sqrt{17} \approx 4.123 (square root of 17 to three decimal places).

Step 2: Analyze the possible missing numbers

  • 4.54.5: Already in decimal form.
  • 3.8%3.8\%: Written as a decimal, 3.8%=0.0383.8\% = 0.038, which is very small.
  • 5715=3.8\frac{57}{15} = 3.8: Convert 5715\frac{57}{15} to a decimal, yielding 3.83.8.
  • (3.9)2=15.21(3.9)^2 = 15.21: Square of 3.93.9 is much larger than the other values in the list.

Step 3: Order the numbers

The list in ascending order:

  • 0.0380.038 (option 2: 3.8%3.8\%),
  • 3.63.6 (185\frac{18}{5}),
  • 3.713.71,
  • 3.83.8 (option 3: 5715\frac{57}{15}),
  • 4.1234.123 (17\sqrt{17}),
  • 4.54.5 (option 1: 4.54.5).

Since the missing number falls between 3.713.71 and 174.123\sqrt{17} \approx 4.123, the only possible choice is:

5715=3.8\frac{57}{15} = 3.8.

Final Answer:

The missing number is 5715\frac{57}{15} (Option 3).

Would you like further clarification or help with any step?


Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How do you convert percentages into decimals or fractions?
  2. How do you approximate square roots like 17\sqrt{17} without a calculator?
  3. What is the method for ordering fractions, decimals, and square roots on a number line?
  4. How do you simplify and compare fractions like 185\frac{18}{5} and 5715\frac{57}{15}?
  5. How does (3.9)2(3.9)^2 affect its position on the number line when squared?

Tip: Always compare numbers in the same format (either all as decimals or fractions) for an accurate comparison!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Ordering numbers
Decimals
Fractions
Square roots

Formulas

Decimal conversion of fractions: a/b = a ÷ b
Approximation of square roots: √n ≈ closest decimal value

Theorems

Basic properties of the number line

Suitable Grade Level

Grade 8