Question

Change 14 yards, 8 feet, 7 inches to inches. A. 504 in. B. 607 in. C. 600 in. D. 336 in.

Short answer

607 inches

Step-by-step solution

Convert Yards to Inches

First, convert the yards to inches. There are 36 inches in one yard. So, multiply the number of yards by 36.\[ 14 \text{ yards} \times 36 = 504 \text{ inches} \]

Convert Feet to Inches

Next, convert the feet to inches. There are 12 inches in one foot. Multiply the number of feet by 12.\[ 8 \text{ feet} \times 12 = 96 \text{ inches} \]

Convert Inches to Inches

Since the inches don't need to be converted, simply take the number as it is.\[ 7 \text{ inches} = 7 \text{ inches} \]

Add All the Inches Together

Finally, add the converted values together to find the total number of inches.\[ 504 + 96 + 7 = 607 \text{ inches} \]

Key concepts

Yards to Inches

When converting yards to inches, it's important to know that 1 yard equals 36 inches. This conversion factor is key in understanding how distances measured in yards relate to those in inches. A yard is a larger unit, often used in measuring fields or large spaces. To convert yards to inches, simply multiply the number of yards by 36. For example, if you have 14 yards, you perform the multiplication as follows:

• Multiply the yards by 36: 14 yards \( \times \) 36 inches/yard = 504 inches.

By using this simple multiplication, you can convert any measurement from yards to inches easily. This skill is particularly useful in problems that require you to work with different units of measurement.

Feet to Inches

Converting feet to inches is similar to the yard conversion but uses a different factor. Understanding that there are 12 inches in a foot is fundamental. Feet are often used in construction and interior spaces where more precision is needed but isn't as widely spread as yards. To convert feet into inches, multiply the number of feet by 12. An example conversion could look like this:

• Multiply the feet by 12: 8 feet \( \times \) 12 inches/foot = 96 inches.

This method ensures you can handle unit changes confidently, whether you're dealing with design, drafting, or any task requiring precise measurement.

Inches Conversion

Inches are a standard unit of measurement, often used for smaller lengths or precise measurements. When you are converting units where the initial measurement is already in inches, like in this exercise where it includes 7 inches, the conversion is straightforward. You simply take the existing number as-is since no conversion is needed.

• For example, 7 inches is simply 7 inches.

This simplicity is one of the reasons inches are commonly used in direct measurements and calculations. Their straightforward nature means they fit seamlessly into multi-step conversions.

Prealgebra

Prealgebra serves as the foundation for more advanced math, introducing fundamental operations and concepts. It often includes working with units of measurement like yards, feet, and inches, making it essential for understanding these conversions. Prealgebra teaches how to break down problems, like converting different units, into manageable steps. Here is how it applies to conversion problems:

• Breaking tasks into smaller calculations (like converting yards and feet separately before adding them).

By gaining confidence in these foundational skills, students prepare themselves for algebra and other advanced math topics.

Measurement

Measurement is a fundamental math concept that helps us quantify and describe the world around us. Understanding different units and how to convert between them is an essential skill. It allows for consistency and accuracy when describing distances, weights, and volumes. Like in the given problem, converting yards, feet, and inches to a single unit ensures:

• Accuracy in calculations and reporting.
• Consistency in communicating measurements.

Learning and practicing measurement conversion helps students solve problems in math, science, and everyday life, making it a versatile and invaluable skill.