Question

Using the paths shown, how long is the shortest route from Lexington to Somerville?

Answer 1

1
`(1)/(4)` miles

Explanation:

the routes from Lexington to Somerville are

Lexington → Brookfield → Somerville with distance

`(3)/(8)` +
`(7)/(8)` =
`(3+7)/(8)` =
`(10)/(8)` = 1
`(2)/(8)` = 1
`(1)/(4)` miles

the other route is

Lexington → Brookfield → Yardley → Somerville with distance

`(3)/(8)` +
`(1)/(2)` +
`(1)/(2)` =
`(3)/(8)` +
`(4)/(8)` +
`(4)/(8)` =
`(3+4+4)/(8)` =
`(11)/(8)` = 1
`(3)/(8)` miles

the shortest distance is

Lexington → Brookfield → Somerville , a distance of 1
`(1)/(4)` miles