The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct actual dimensions of Chelsea’s desk are 6 feet by 3 feet.
This problem requires using the provided scale to convert the dimensions of a paper cutout into the actual size of the furniture it represents. A scale drawing is a proportional, smaller representation of a larger, real world object or space. The key to solving this is the scale factor given in the image, which is 1 inch = 4 feet. This scale acts as our conversion rule. It means that every single inch measured on the drawing corresponds to four feet in the actual room.
First, we need to find the actual length of the desk. The paper cutout representing the desk has a length of 1 1/2 inches. To perform the calculation, it is often easier to work with decimals or improper fractions. The mixed number 1 1/2 is equivalent to 1.5 as a decimal. We multiply this scale dimension by the scale factor. So, the calculation is 1.5 inches multiplied by 4 feet per inch. This gives us a result of 6 feet for the actual length of the desk.
Next, we must determine the actual width of the desk. The paper cutout’s width is given as 3/4 of an inch. As a decimal, 3/4 is equal to 0.75. We apply the same conversion process by multiplying this measurement by the scale factor of 4. The calculation is 0.75 inches multiplied by 4 feet per inch, which results in 3 feet. This means the actual width of the desk is 3 feet.
By applying the scale to both measurements of the paper cutout, we have successfully translated the drawing’s dimensions into the furniture’s real life size. This useful technique allows Chelsea to effectively plan her new room arrangement with accuracy before committing to moving any heavy items. Therefore, the final, actual dimensions of her desk are 6 feet long by 3 feet wide.
