Calculating Mangoes in Cartons: A Simple Math Problem
Introduction
This article explores a simple math problem that involves equal distribution and basic arithmetic operations. It provides a clear and concise solution to a real-world scenario, helping learners and parents understand the practical application of division and multiplication.
The Problem: Distributing Mangoes Equally
A common problem in elementary mathematics is the distribution of items into equal groups. This article focuses on a specific problem: 'If 780 mangoes were divided equally into 12 cartons, and Rita bought 3 cartons, how many mangoes did Rita buy?' We will break down the solution into simple steps, making it accessible for students and anyone interested in learning about basic arithmetic.
Step-by-Step Solution
Total Number of Mangoes
The problem starts with the total number of mangoes, which is given as 780. The first step is to understand that these 780 mangoes need to be distributed equally among 12 cartons.
Dividing the Mangoes Equally
Next, we need to figure out how many mangoes are in each carton. To do this, we divide the total number of mangoes by the number of cartons:
65 780 ÷ 12
This calculation tells us that each carton contains 65 mangoes.
Rita's Purchase
The problem then asks how many mangoes Rita bought when she purchased 3 cartons. We already know that each carton contains 65 mangoes. Therefore, to find the total number of mangoes Rita bought, we multiply the number of mangoes in each carton by the number of cartons she bought:
195 3 × 65
So, Rita bought a total of 195 mangoes.
Further Explorations: Real-World Applications
Mathematical problems like this have numerous real-world applications. They can be used to teach children about business logistics, inventory management, and even simple economics. Understanding how to break down and solve these problems is crucial for developing strong problem-solving skills.
Conclusion
In summary, a problem involving the equal distribution of 780 mangoes into 12 cartons, followed by the purchase of 3 cartons by Rita, can be easily solved with basic arithmetic. By distributing the 780 mangoes equally, we find that each carton contains 65 mangoes. Rita's purchase of 3 cartons translates to a total of 195 mangoes. This example not only teaches the principles of division and multiplication but also highlights the practical application of these concepts in everyday situations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many mangoes are in each carton?
Each carton contains 65 mangoes. This is calculated by dividing the total number of mangoes (780) by the total number of cartons (12).
How many mangoes did Rita buy?
Rita bought 195 mangoes. This is calculated by multiplying the number of mangoes in each carton (65) by the number of cartons she bought (3).
Can this problem be solved without a calculator?
Yes, this problem can be solved without a calculator. The division 780 ÷ 12 and the multiplication 3 × 65 are both simple enough to be done mentally or with basic arithmetic skills.