Final answer:
By dividing the total shelf width (converted to an improper fraction, 49/4 inches) by the width of one math book (7/8 inches), we find that Ms. Newton can fit 56 books on the 12 1/4 inch wide shelf.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine how many math books can fit on Ms. Newton's shelf, we need to divide the total width of the shelf by the width of one book. Let's let x represent the number of books that can fit on the shelf. The width of one book is 7/8 inches and the shelf is 12 1/4 inches wide. We can set up the equation as follows:
7/8 * x = 12 1/4
To solve for x, convert 12 1/4 inches to an improper fraction which is 49/4 inches, and then multiply both sides of the equation by the reciprocal of 7/8:
(8/7) * (7/8) * x = (8/7) * (49/4)
After simplifying, we get:
x = 56
Therefore, Ms. Newton can fit 56 books on the shelf.