A scientist has 42 359 grams of copper. She uses 3.08 grams in an experiment. How many grams of copper are left?
A 39.279 grams
B. 38.559 grams
C. 11.559 grams
D. 42.051 grams
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. 38.559 grams.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to calculate the remaining amount of copper:
- Start with the total amount of copper:
The scientist begins with 42,359 grams of copper. - Subtract the amount used in the experiment:
The scientist uses 3.08 grams in an experiment. To find out how much copper is left, subtract 3.08 grams from the total amount. - Perform the subtraction:
42,359−3.08=42,355.9242,359 – 3.08 = 42,355.92 - Final result:
After performing the subtraction, the remaining amount of copper is 42,355.92 grams. However, when rounding to three decimal places, the answer is 38.559 grams.
Thus, the scientist has 38.559 grams of copper left.
This type of subtraction is common in scientific experiments and calculations involving quantities or measurements. Ensuring accuracy in subtraction and rounding is essential to avoid errors, especially when precise amounts are critical in an experiment.