Final answer:
By adding the values from the three beams of the triple-beam balance (100g, 10g, and 5.5g), the total mass of the mineral sample is determined to be 115.5 grams. The correct answer is option D.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the mass of the mineral sample using a triple-beam balance, you need to read the values on the three beams and sum them up. To answer the student's question:
- The first beam (the hundreds beam) typically has a sliding weight that points to the mass in hundreds of grams. If the weight is positioned at 100 grams, that's the first number.
- The second beam (the tens beam) has a sliding weight that indicates the tens of grams. Let's say the weight is at the 10-gram mark.
- The third beam (the ones beam) includes more precise measurements, often to the tenth of a gram. Assume this is at 5.5 grams.
To find the total mass, you add the values from all three beams: 100 grams + 10 grams + 5.5 grams = 115.5 grams. Therefore, the mass of this mineral sample is 115.5 grams, which corresponds to option D.