Final Answer:
Option b) the five-pack of 100 paper clips each for $1.27 is the better deal.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to determine the more cost-effective option, let's break down the cost per paper clip for each option.
For option a):
Cost of one box of 100 paper clips = $0.38
Cost per paper clip = \( \frac{0.38}{100} \) = $0.0038 per paper clip
For option b):
Cost of five packs of 100 paper clips each = $1.27
Total number of paper clips = 5 packs
100 paper clips/pack = 500 paper clips
Cost per paper clip =
per paper clip
Comparing the two options, we find that option b) offers a lower cost per paper clip ($0.00254) compared to option a) ($0.0038). Therefore, the five-pack of 100 paper clips each for $1.27 is the more economical choice.
In conclusion, when faced with the decision of purchasing paper clips, opting for the five-pack not only provides a larger quantity but also proves to be more budget-friendly on a per-unit basis. It's essential to consider both the total cost and the quantity of items when assessing the overall value of a purchase.