Final answer:
By dividing 17.5 pounds of rock by the 2.333 pounds needed per area, we find that Jim can create approximately 7.5 areas. Since only complete areas count, Jim can create 7 areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine how many complete areas Jim can create with 171/2 pounds of rock, given that each area will use 21/3 pounds, we need to divide the total pounds of rock by the pounds used per area. This calculation can be described by the equation:
Total Areas = Total Pounds of Rock ÷ Pounds per Area
When we perform the calculation, we get:
Total Areas = 17.5 ÷ 2.333...
Upon dividing 17.5 by 2.333 (which is the decimal form of 21/3), we find that Jim can create approximately 7.5 areas. However, since he can't create half an area, the number of complete areas he can create is 7. Therefore, the correct answer is B) 7 areas.