Question

which questions can be answered by finding the surface area? check all that apply.
□ how much wrapping paper is needed to wrap a box?
□ what is the minimum amount of paint needed to cover a cardboard box?
□ how much water is needed to fill a rectangular bathtub?
□ how much cereal will fit in a box?
□ how much packing foam is needed to fill a box?

Explanation:

• Surface area is the total area of the outer surfaces of a 3D object. Wrapping paper for a box covers its outer surface, so we need surface area.
• Paint to cover a cardboard box also covers the outer surface, so surface area is needed.
• Filling a bathtub (water), cereal in a box, or packing foam in a box involves volume (space inside), not surface area.

Answer:

• How much wrapping paper is needed to wrap a box?
• What is the minimum amount of paint needed to cover a cardboard box?