Question

20.

The size of a packet of pasta is increased by one-quarter.
The new size is later reduced by one-quarter.
is the new packet smaller, the same size or larger than the original?
Explain how you worked out your answer.

Answer 1

Answer: Smaller

Explanation:

Multiplying a number by 1.25 increases it by a quarter

Multiplying a number by 0.75 decreases it by a quarter

1.25 / 0.75 = 0.9375

Thus, increasing something by a quarter then decreasing it by a quarter, you are effectively multiplying that number by 0.9375, which is less than 1, so the number will decrease.