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What is the best order of magnitude estimate for the height of a typical human?

User Cboettig
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Final answer:

The best order of magnitude estimate for the height of a typical human is 10⁰ meters, as an average adult human is approximately 2 meters tall. This approximation is useful for making large scale estimates in mathematics.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student asked what is the best order of magnitude estimate for the height of a typical human. When we discuss order of magnitude, we're looking for a broad estimate rather than an exact measurement. In mathematics, particularly when making Fermi calculations or estimates, we look to simplify complex problems by finding approximate values that are easier to work with.

Considering the context provided, where one story is approximately equal to about the length of two adult humans, and each human is about 2 meters tall, we can infer that an average adult human is roughly 2 meters in height. Thus, the best order of magnitude estimate for the height of a typical human would be 10⁰ meters, since 2 meters lies between 10⁰ (1 meter) and 10ⁱ (10 meters), but is closer to 10⁰. This provides us with a manageable, rounded figure when making larger scale estimates or comparisons, such as approximating the height of a building.

User MisterAlvis
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