Question

Add these amounts and simplify:

3 lb 8 oz + 2 lb 9 oz
a. 5 lb 1 oz
b. 6 lb 1 oz
c. 6 lb 3 oz
d. 6 lb 2 oz

Answer 1

To add the weights given in pounds and ounces, you combine the ounces first and convert any excess to pounds, then add the pounds together. The correct sum of 3 lb 8 oz and 2 lb 9 oz is 6 lb 1 oz.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question presented is about adding compound customary units of weight, specifically pounds (lbs) and ounces (oz). To solve the problem, you first add the ounces and then add the pounds. If the total ounces exceed 16, you convert the excess into pounds and add it to the total pounds.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Add the ounces: 8 oz + 9 oz = 17 oz. Since 1 pound = 16 ounces, 17 oz is equal to 1 lb and 1 oz.
2. Add the pounds: 3 lb + 2 lb = 5 lb. Don’t forget to include the extra pound from the previous step.
3. Combine the totals: 5 lb (from step 2) + 1 lb (converted from ounces in step 1) gives you 6 lb. Then, add the remaining 1 oz to get the final answer.

Therefore, the correct answer is 6 lb 1 oz, which corresponds to option b in the given choices.