Final answer:
To find the actual length of an object that is 3/8 inch shorter than the nominal length, subtract 3/8 inch from the nominal length. For instance, a 10-inch nominal length plank would actually be 9 5/8 inches after the reduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Determining the actual length of an object when it is shorter than its nominal dimensions involves a straightforward subtraction process. Nominal dimensions represent the standard or expected dimensions of an object before accounting for factors like production tolerances or material shrinkage. In this example, if a wooden plank has a nominal length of 10 inches and is 3/8 inch shorter, the actual length can be calculated by subtracting the specified difference from the nominal length.
The formula for finding the actual length is:
\[ \text{Nominal length} - \text{Difference} = \text{Actual length} \]
For the given wooden plank:
\[ 10 \, \text{inches} - \frac{3}{8} \, \text{inch} = 9 \frac{5}{8} \, \text{inches} \]
Therefore, the actual length of the wooden plank would be 9 5/8 inches.
This subtraction method allows for a straightforward calculation, providing a precise measurement of the object's actual length based on the nominal dimensions and any specified differences. It's a practical approach commonly used in various fields, such as manufacturing, construction, or carpentry, to ensure accurate and predictable outcomes in the final dimensions of objects, accounting for variations in the production process.