Question

Jim is cutting strips of wood for a picture frame twin strip measures 12 inches and 18 inches he wants to cut the strips into equal lengths that are as long as possible into what lengths should he cut the wood?

Answer 1

Jim should cut the wood strips into 6-inch lengths, as this is the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the two original lengths of 12 and 18 inches. This ensures that all pieces will be of equal length and as long as possible for the picture frame.

Step-by-step explanation:

Finding the Longest Equal Lengths for Wood Strips

Jim wants to cut two strips of wood, one measuring 12 inches and another 18 inches, into equal lengths that are as long as possible. To find the maximum length for these equal pieces, we need to calculate the greatest common divisor (GCD) of the two lengths. The GCD of 12 and 18 is 6, which is the longest length in inches that Jim can cut the wood strips to ensure that each piece is of equal length.

Here's the step-by-step explanation:

1. • Factors of 12: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12.
     
   • Factors of 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18.
     
2. Identify the common factors: The common factors are 1, 2, 3, and 6.
3. Select the greatest common factor: The largest number that is a factor of both 12 and 18 is 6 inches.

Therefore, Jim should cut the wood strips into 6-inch lengths to make the frame.