Question

what is the difference in weight between the heaviest bag sold and the lightest bag sold?
a $1\frac{1}{2}$ pounds
b $\frac{1}{2}$ pound
c 3 pounds
d 2 pounds
(there is a dot plot with weight in pounds on the x - axis from 0 to 3, marked with 0, $\frac{1}{2}$, 1, $1\frac{1}{2}$, 2, $2\frac{1}{2}$, 3. dots are plotted above the axis.)

Explanation:

Step1: Find the heaviest weight

From the number line, the rightmost dot (heaviest) is at \( 2\frac{1}{2} \) pounds.

Step2: Find the lightest weight

The leftmost dot (lightest) is at \( \frac{1}{2} \) pounds.

Step3: Calculate the difference

Subtract the lightest from the heaviest: \( 2\frac{1}{2}-\frac{1}{2} \). Convert \( 2\frac{1}{2} \) to improper fraction \( \frac{5}{2} \), and \( \frac{1}{2} \) stays. So \( \frac{5}{2}-\frac{1}{2}=\frac{4}{2} = 2 \) pounds.

Answer:

D. 2 pounds