Question

The first play of a football game resulted in a loss of 1 2 1/2 yards. Then a penalty resulted in another loss of 5 yards. What rational number represents the total loss or gain in yards.

Answer 1

The rational number representing the total loss in yards after a loss of 1 2 1/2 yards and a penalty of 5 yards is -6.5 yards.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question is asking to determine the total loss or gain in yards after two instances in a football game: a play that resulted in a loss of 1 2 1/2 yards and a penalty that resulted in another loss of 5 yards. To calculate the total loss, we need to add both numbers together, keeping in mind that a loss is represented by a negative number. So, we have:

-1 2 1/2 yards = -1.5 yards

Now, by adding the penalty:

-1.5 yards + (-5 yards) = -1.5 - 5 = -6.5 yards

The rational number representing the total loss in yards is -6.5. In football, the units are consistent and the dimensions of the field, including the yard, are standardized across all games.