2011 AMC 10B Problems/Problem 3

Revision as of 18:00, 25 May 2011 by Gina (talk | contribs)

Problem

At a store, when a length is reported as $x$ inches that means the length is at least $x - 0.5$ inches and at most $x + 0.5$ inches. Suppose the dimensions of a rectangular tile are reported as $2$ inches by $3$ inches. In square inches, what is the minimum area for the rectangle?

$\textbf{(A)}\ 3.75 \qquad\textbf{(B)}\ 4.5 \qquad\textbf{(C)}\ 5 \qquad\textbf{(D)}\ 6 \qquad\textbf{(E)}\ 8.75$

Solution

The minimum dimensions of the rectangle are $1.5$ inches by $2.5$ inches. The minimum area is $1.5\times2.5=\boxed{(A) 3.75}$ inches.