Question

Tilapia is rapidly becoming an important source of fish around the world. This is because it can be farmed easily and sustainably. In 2011,475 million lb of tilapia were consumed by Americans. If the average tilapia has a mass of \(535 \mathrm{~g}\), how many tilapia were consumed in 2011 ?

Short answer

Approximately 402,728,598 tilapia were consumed in 2011.

Step-by-step solution

Convert Pounds to Grams

First, we convert the total weight of tilapia consumed in pounds to grams. Since there are 453.592 grams in a pound, multiply the total pounds consumed by this conversion factor. 475 million lb = 475,000,000 lb Total grams = 475,000,000 lb × 453.592 g/lb

Calculate Total Grams

Now, perform the multiplication to find the total grams of tilapia consumed. Total grams = 475,000,000 × 453.592 = 215,456,800,000 g

Calculate Number of Tilapia

Next, divide the total grams of tilapia by the average mass of one tilapia in grams to find the number of tilapia consumed. Number of tilapia = Total grams / Average mass of one tilapia Number of tilapia = 215,456,800,000 g / 535 g

Perform Final Division

Complete the division to find the total number of tilapia. Number of tilapia = 215,456,800,000 / 535 ≈ 402,728,598

Key concepts

Unit Conversion

Unit conversion is essential in chemistry, especially when working with different measurement systems. It helps in ensuring that all values are in the same units for accurate calculations. In this exercise, we convert pounds to grams because the average mass of a tilapia is given in grams.

To convert pounds to grams, use the conversion factor: 1 pound = 453.592 grams. This step is crucial as it ensures consistency in your calculations. Multiplying the total pounds by 453.592 gives you the equivalent mass in grams. Always remember to multiply by the correct conversion factor to avoid errors.

Mass to Weight Conversion

Mass and weight are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct concepts in chemistry. Mass is the amount of matter in an object and is measured in grams or kilograms. Weight, on the other hand, is the force exerted by gravity on that mass and is measured in pounds or newtons.

In our problem, the total tilapia consumption was given in pounds (a measure of weight). To find out how many tilapia were consumed, we first had to convert this weight to mass. This conversion makes the calculation compatible with the mass of individual tilapias given in grams.

Problem Solving in Chemistry

Problem-solving in chemistry often involves breaking down a larger problem into smaller, manageable steps. In our exercise, we solved the problem by:

• Converting the total weight from pounds to grams
• Calculating the total mass in grams
• Dividing this mass by the average mass of one tilapia

Each of these steps is important and ensures accurate final results. It's like solving a puzzle, where each small step builds towards the complete solution. Understanding each stage rather than rushing through it helps in minimizing mistakes and increases comprehension.

Mathematical Calculations in Chemistry

Mathematical calculations are a cornerstone of solving chemistry problems. They help in converting units, measuring quantities, and predicting outcomes. In our example, we used several mathematical operations:

• Multiplication to convert pounds to grams
• Division to find the number of tilapia

Understanding how to perform these calculations accurately is essential. Always check your work and ensure all units are consistent. Well-practiced mathematical skills will make problem-solving quicker and more efficient.