Final answer:
The machine makes nails at a rate of 1 1/2 pounds per hour.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the rate at which the machine makes nails in pounds per hour, we can use the concept of unit rates. We know that the machine makes 2 1/4 pounds of nails in 1 1/2 hours. To find the rate in pounds per hour, we divide the pounds by the hours:
Therefore, the machine makes nails at a rate of 1 ½ pounds per hour.