Question

Simplify 3.42 (−5.6).
a) 39.8
b) 9.02
c) −2.18
d) −3.98

Answer 1

None of the provided options match the calculated result of -19.15 for the expression 3.42 (−5.6) when simplified and rounded to the correct number of significant figures.

Step-by-step explanation:

To simplify the expression 3.42 (−5.6), you would multiply the two numbers directly. Here is the step by step calculation:

1. Multiply the absolute values: 3.42 × 5.6 = 19.152.
2. Since one number is positive and the other is negative, the result will be negative: -19.152.
3. Next, round to the correct number of significant figures. Both numbers we started with have two decimal places, so our result should also have two decimal places if needed. The rounded result is -19.15.

However, none of the options provided in the question (a) 39.8, (b) 9.02, (c) −2.18, (d) −3.98 match our calculated result. It seems there might be a mistake in either the options or the initial values given.