Unit rate for $6.50 for 3 1/4 pounds of grapes
Unit rate for $6.50 for 3 1/4 pounds of grapes
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The unit rate is $2.00 per pound.
Explanation
A unit rate is a comparison of two quantities where one of the quantities is one unit. In this case, we are given a price for a certain amount of grapes and asked to find the price per one pound — that is, the cost of one pound of grapes.
We are told that 3 ¼ pounds of grapes cost $6.50.
Step 1: Convert the Mixed Number
First, convert the mixed number 3 ¼ to an improper fraction or a decimal for easier calculations:
- 314=1343\frac{1}{4} = \frac{13}{4} or 3.25
Step 2: Set Up the Unit Rate Formula
To find the unit rate, divide the total cost by the number of pounds: Unit Rate=$6.503.25 pounds=6.503.25\text{Unit Rate} = \frac{\$6.50}{3.25 \text{ pounds}} = \frac{6.50}{3.25}
Step 3: Perform the Division
6.503.25=2.00\frac{6.50}{3.25} = 2.00
So, the unit rate is $2.00 per pound.
Step 4: Interpret the Result
This means that each pound of grapes costs $2.00. If you were to buy just 1 pound, you would pay $2.00. Buying 3.25 pounds at $2.00 per pound gives: 3.25×2.00=$6.503.25 \times 2.00 = \$6.50
This confirms our calculation is correct.
Why This Matters
Understanding unit rates is important in real-life situations like grocery shopping, comparing prices, or budgeting. By converting to a unit rate, you can easily compare prices across different quantities or brands to make informed decisions. In this example, knowing the grapes cost $2.00 per pound lets you compare it to other stores or decide how much to buy within your budget.
