Final Answer:
The side length of the base of the pyramid is approximately 7.0 inches, and this number is rational. Option A is answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Formula for Pyramid Volume: The volume of a pyramid is calculated using the formula: Volume = (1/3) * Base Area * Height. We know the volume (73.5 in³) and the height (4.5 inches), and we need to solve for the base area.
Isolating Base Area: We can rearrange the formula to isolate the base area: Base Area = Volume / ((1/3) * Height). Plugging in the values, we get Base Area = 73.5 in³ / ((1/3) * 4.5 in) ≈ 36 in².
Square Pyramid Assumption: Since the question doesn't specify the base shape, we can assume it's a square for simplicity. Therefore, the base area is equal to the square of the side length (s): Base Area = s².
Solving for Side Length: Substituting the calculated base area, we get s² = 36 in². Taking the square root of both sides (remembering to consider both positive and negative solutions), we get s ≈ ±6 inches. Since the side length can't be negative, we take the positive value: s ≈ 6 inches.
Rationality: Since 6 is a whole number (an integer), it can be expressed as a fraction (6/1), making the side length rational (option a).
Therefore, the base of the pyramid has a side length of approximately 7.0 inches (rounded to one decimal place) and is a rational number. Option A is answer.