Calculating Area: Decimal Sides vs. Actual Size Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of area for a square with decimal side lengths. Participants explore the implications of using decimal values in area calculations, specifically questioning whether the area can be greater than the side lengths and clarifying the correct mathematical approach to find the area.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the area of a square with 0.5-inch sides would be less than the side lengths, proposing calculations that lead to confusion between area and linear dimensions.
  • Another participant points out an error in the division used in the calculations, suggesting that the correct divisor should be 100 instead of 10.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about the area being less than the side values and seeks clarification on whether the area should be 0.25 or 2.5 inches.
  • One participant asserts that the area is indeed 0.25 square inches, reinforcing this claim in a later post.
  • A participant reflects on their initial confusion regarding the area calculation, acknowledging their long-standing familiarity with the concept but expressing doubt in this instance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is some agreement that the area is 0.25 square inches, but confusion remains regarding the calculations and the implications of decimal values in area measurements. Multiple viewpoints exist on the correct approach to the calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the mathematical steps involved, particularly regarding the use of decimal values and the implications for area calculations. There is a lack of consensus on the reasoning behind the calculations.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in geometry, particularly those grappling with the implications of using decimal values in area calculations or seeking clarification on basic area concepts.

Drakkith
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This was bothering me a bit. When calculating the area of something, say a square, whose sides are in decimal, will the area be smaller than the sides?

Say we have a square with 0.5 inches for all 4 sides. Will the area be 0.5 x 0.5 = 0.25, or would it be 2.5 inches? 5x5 = 25, divided by 10 = 2.5 inches.
 
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Why are you dividing by 10? You should divide by 100
5/10 * 5/10=0.25
 
I multiplied all the values by 10 to get 5x5=25. Should I be dividing by 100 instead? Seems odd to me that the area is LESS than the 2 side values.Thats pretty much my question, would it be .25 or 2.5 inches for the area?
 
It would be 0.25 square inches...
 
micromass said:
It would be 0.25 square inches...

Alright. I thought it would be, but for some reason, when i was thinking about it, it didn't make sense. (Even though I've known how to do area for like 15 years)

Guess I overthought it lol. Thanks guys.
 

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