36. In 1991 Mike Powell set the world long-jump record with a jump of 29 feet 4 inches. Which of the following is closest to the length of the jump expressed in meters? Note: 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters
Answer: B
Mike Powell's long jump record is approximately 8.95 meters.
To convert 29 feet 4 inches into meters, first, convert the length entirely into inches, then into centimeters, and finally into meters. The correct conversion results in approximately 8.95 meters.
A) 8.50 meters
This option is incorrect as it underestimates the actual length of the jump. The conversion calculations indicate that 29 feet 4 inches is greater than 8.50 meters, making this choice inaccurate.
B) 8.95 meters
This option accurately reflects the conversion of 29 feet 4 inches into meters. The calculations confirm that the length in meters is closest to 8.95, making this the correct answer.
C) 9.38 meters
This choice is incorrect as it overestimates the length of the jump. The actual measurement is not close to this figure, indicating a significant error in conversion if this were selected.
D) 11.88 meters
This option is also incorrect, as it greatly exceeds the actual length of the jump. Such a measurement is not plausible given the original jump distance, confirming that this choice is inaccurate.
Conclusion
The conversion from feet and inches to meters confirms that 8.95 meters is the closest approximation of Mike Powell's record jump. All other options either underestimate or overestimate the jump's true length, highlighting the importance of accurate unit conversion in this context.