Question

A client weighed 85.4 kilograms (kg) in January. In February, the client gained \(1.8 \mathrm{~kg}\). In March, the client gained \(2.3 \mathrm{~kg}\). How much did the client weigh in March? ______

Short answer

The client weighed 89.5 kg in March.

Step-by-step solution

Convert Initial Weight to an Equation

Consider the initial weight of the client as an equation. The client weighed 85.4 kg in January.

Apply February Weight Gain

Add the February weight gain of 1.8 kg to the January weight. The equation becomes: \[85.4 + 1.8 = 87.2 \text{ kg}\]This is the client's weight in February.

Apply March Weight Gain

Add the March weight gain of 2.3 kg to the February weight. The equation becomes: \[87.2 + 2.3 = 89.5 \text{ kg}\]This is the client's weight in March.

Key concepts

Step-by-Step Solution

Understanding mathematical problems through a step-by-step solution helps in breaking down complex problems into simpler pieces. In this exercise, you are found following an organized structure that simplifies the process of calculating weight gain over a period. Here's the breakdown:

• Step 1: Convert the known initial weight into an equation format, establishing the base for further calculations.
• Step 2: Evaluate the first change in weight by adding February's gain to the initial weight.
• Step 3: Include the second change by adding March's gain to February's weight, concluding with the final weight.

Using clear steps like these makes it easy to manage separate calculations systematically, ensuring you reach the right solution efficiently.

Initial Weight

The initial weight is the starting point for any gradual change calculations, such as gains or losses, over time. In this problem, the initial weight of the client was 85.4 kg.
This value is vital for setting the baseline from which all future changes are measured. When you set an initial value:

• Treat it as a constant foundation—everything else adds or subtracts from this point.
• Ensure it's accurately measured and documented to maintain calculation accuracy.

Having a clear starting point is necessary because it lays the groundwork for understanding how much change has taken place over time.

Weight Gain

Calculating weight gain involves determining how much weight has been added to the initial amount over a certain period. In this exercise, the client experienced weight gains in two months:

• February: 1.8 kg gain
• March: 2.3 kg gain

To calculate the total weight gain over the period: 1. Add the separate gains to determine the overall increase. 2. Use the equation from the base weight to the final weight to trace each step of the gain process. 3. Ensure that the gains are recorded incrementally to provide clarity and understanding.
Understanding how to effectively track and apply weight gain is crucial for accurate long-term tracking of changes.

Mathematics Education

Learning mathematics is about more than just numbers—it's about developing a logical process to solve problems. Incorporating real-world scenarios in mathematics education, such as calculating weight gain, makes concepts more relatable and understandable. Here's how this problem teaches key skills:

• It encourages critical thinking and sequential reasoning.
• It helps students learn how to convert real-world information into mathematical equations.
• It demonstrates the application of addition in a practical scenario.

Effective mathematics education provides students with the tools to approach complex problems with confidence. By mastering this type of structured problem-solving, students equip themselves with skills crucial for tackling diverse mathematical challenges.