Question

CRISTAL MEASURED A BOX AND SAID IT WAS 18 CUBIC UNITS LONG. KYLE SAYS IT IS 48 CUBIC UNITS. HOW COULD THEY COME UP WITH DIFFERENT ANSWERS. GIVE TWO REASONS

Answer 1

Given:

Measure of box reported by Cristal = 18 cubic units

Measure of box reported by Kyle = 48 cubic units

To find: The reason behind the discrepancies in their reporting.

Answer:

The measurement has been done in 'cubic units'. This indicates that they are measuring the volume of the box. Now, the differences in their reporting can be due to the following reasons:

1. Unit of measurement: Cristal might have reported in imperial units whereas Kyle must have used metric units. Example, an inch is greater than a centimeter.
2. Instrument used for measurement: Either Cristal or Kyle are using a non-standardized instrument for recording measurements. The unit spacing between, say Kyle's instrument might be smaller than that of Cristal's. They need to check it against a standard ruler to standardize their rulers.
3. Least count error: Instruments with a greater least count or bigger gradations are prone to errors than instruments with a smaller least count. Example, a ruler with a least count of 1 inch will not be able to record in decimal units whereas a ruler with a least count of 1 mm can make fine recording.
4. Rigidity of box: If the box can shrink under different environmental conditions then there will inconsistencies in their recording. Cristal must have recorded its volume in cold temperature whereas Kyle must have recorded its volume in hot temperature. (sounds odd but is true)