Final answer:
To find the average rainfall per hour, divide the total rainfall in 24 hours by 24. Convert the mixed number to an improper fraction, then divide it by 24.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the amount of rain that fell per hour on average, we need to divide the total rainfall in 24 hours by 24. The total rainfall is given as 15 2/5 inches. To divide it, convert the mixed number 15 2/5 to an improper fraction. Multiply the whole number (15) by the denominator (5) and add the numerator (2). This gives us 77/5 inches. Now we can divide 77/5 by 24 to find the average rainfall per hour.
Step 1: Convert the mixed number 15 2/5 to an improper fraction: 15 x 5 + 2 = 77/5 inches.
Step 2: Divide the total rainfall 77/5 inches by 24: 77/5 / 24 = 77/120 = 0.6417 inches per hour (rounded to four decimal places).