Acres to miles: conversion problem (book error?)

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SUMMARY

The conversion of acres to square meters reveals a discrepancy between calculations derived from Wolfram Alpha and the book's solution. The correct conversion states that 1 acre equals 4046.86 square meters, calculated as (1/640)(1609 m)^2. The book's approximation of 4.05 x 10^3 m² is a rounded figure, while the precise calculation yields 4045.13 m², indicating that Wolfram Alpha's output of 4286 m² is incorrect due to a miscalculation in the conversion formula.

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Homework Statement



Problem 2.2 An acre is defined such that 640 acres = 1 mi2. How many square meters
are in 1 acre?

Homework Equations



Solution From Table 2.1,
1 mi = 1.609 km = 1609 m
1 acre = 1/640 mi ^2

The Attempt at a Solution



My solution comes from wolfram alpha
4286 m^2

BOOK SOLUTION: 4.05 X 10^3 m^2

my on a calculator: 4045.13

So, why did wolfram get it wrong?
(1/604)(1609 m)^2 --> wolfram
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Bio-Hazard said:
So, why did wolfram get it wrong?
(1/604)(1609 m)^2 --> wolfram

Can you see it?
 

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