To determine how many students can sit around a cluster of 7 square tables, we need to understand how many students can sit around each individual table and how the tables are clustered together.

If each square table has 4 sides, then 4 students can sit around each table, one on each side. Now, when tables are clustered together:

• If we place two tables side by side, 4 students will sit on the outer edges, and 2 additional students can sit where the two tables meet.
• By continuing this clustering pattern, each additional table adds 2 more students to the cluster.

Let's count the total number of students for 7 tables:

• For 1 table, 4 students can sit.
• For 2 tables, 4 + 2 = 6 students.
• For 3 tables, 6 + 2 = 8 students.
• For 4 tables, 8 + 2 = 10 students.
• For 5 tables, 10 + 2 = 12 students.
• For 6 tables, 12 + 2 = 14 students.
• For 7 tables, 14 + 2 = 16 students.

So, 16 students can sit around a cluster of 7 tables.

The correct answer is A. 16 students.

Would you like further clarification or a breakdown of the pattern?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

1. How many students can sit around a cluster of 4 square tables?
2. How does the number of students increase as more tables are added?
3. What is the pattern for clustering square tables to seat students?
4. How many students can sit around a cluster of 10 tables?
5. What would happen if the tables were rectangular instead of square?

Tip: Visualizing the table arrangement in clusters can help you see the pattern in seating arrangements more clearly!