Final answer:
To convert 4 1/2 pounds to ounces, multiply 9/2 (the improper fraction form of 4 1/2) by the conversion factor of 16, resulting in 72 ounces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conversion of pounds to ounces requires multiplying the number of pounds by the conversion factor of 16, as there are 16 ounces in a pound. In the given problem, we're converting 4 1/2 pounds to ounces.
First, convert the mixed number to an improper fraction:
4 1/2 pounds = (4 × 2 + 1)/2 = 9/2 pounds
Next, use the conversion factor to multiply the number of pounds by 16:
(9/2) × (16/1) = 144/2 = 72 ounces
Therefore, 4 1/2 pounds is equal to 72 ounces, which means option b) 72 oz is the correct answer.