Final answer:
To estimate Priya's cat and dog's weight, round to the nearest whole pound resulting in 6 pounds for the cat and 8 pounds for the dog. The exact weights are 5.5 pounds and 8.25 pounds, respectively. No conversion is needed as weights are already in pounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Estimation and Calculation of Weights
To solve the problem regarding Priya's cat and dog's weight, we'll start by estimating their weights to the nearest whole number before calculating the exact weights. For estimation purposes, Priya's cat's weight of 5 1/2 pounds can be rounded to 6 pounds, and her dog's weight of 8 1/4 pounds can be rounded to 8 pounds.
Now, let's calculate the exact weights. Priya's cat weighs 5 1/2 pounds. To express this in pounds, we simply have 5 + 1/2 = 5.5 pounds. For the dog, the weight is 8 1/4 pounds, which is 8 + 1/4 = 8.25 pounds. No multiplication or division is necessary since weights are already given in the same unit, pounds.
Comparing these calculations with everyday objects, we can relate that the weight of a dog might be similar to a large jug of milk, while the weight of Priya's cat is a bit heavier than a standard soda in a can. Estimating weights is a useful skill in various scenarios, such as calculating the weight of a camper or determining if an automobile is within its carrying capacity.