Ribbon A is \(8.4\,\text{cm}\) long, and Ribbon B is \(8.37\,\text{cm}\) long. The same \(0.2\,\text{cm}\) length is cut from each ribbon.
a) Without calculating the new lengths, predict which ribbon will remain longer.
b) Calculate the new lengths to verify your prediction.
c) State the difference between the new lengths.
Hints
- Compare the original lengths by aligning decimal places.
- Consider what subtracting the same amount does to the order and the gap.
- Use the calculated new lengths only to verify the prediction.
Solution
1. Initially, \(8.40>8.37\), with a difference of \(0.03\,\text{cm}\).
2. Subtracting the same amount from both lengths preserves their order, so Ribbon A will remain longer.
3. The new lengths are \(8.40-0.20=8.20\,\text{cm}\) and \(8.37-0.20=8.17\,\text{cm}\).
4. Their difference is \(8.20-8.17=0.03\,\text{cm}\), unchanged from the original difference.
Answer
a) Ribbon A
b) Ribbon A: \(8.20\,\text{cm}\); Ribbon B: \(8.17\,\text{cm}\)
c) \(0.03\,\text{cm}\)