How to Calculate the Cost of Oranges: A Simple Yet Insightful Example

When faced with the question, ldquo;If the cost of 12 oranges is 5 dollars, what is the cost of 18 oranges?rdquo;, it is easy to fall into the trap of simplifying the problem too quickly. While it may seem that the solution is simply to apply a ratio, there are nuances to consider, such as packaging and bulk pricing. Let's explore this through a step-by-step approach to ensure we arrive at the most accurate answer.

Basic Cost Calculation

To begin, we need to determine the cost per orange. This can be done by dividing the total cost by the number of oranges:

Cost per orange:

Cost per orange  {5 dollars} / {12 oranges} ≈ 0.4167 dollars/orange

Next, we use the cost per orange to calculate the cost of 18 oranges:

Cost of 18 oranges  18 oranges × 0.4167 dollars/orange ≈ 7.50 dollars

Therefore, the cost of 18 oranges is approximately 7.50 dollars.

Ratio-Based Approach

An alternative method is to use ratios to find the unknown cost. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Write down the known ratio: 12 oranges 5 dollars.

To find the cost of 18 oranges, we need to scale up from 12 to 18. Both numbers are divisible by 2.

Divide both sides of the equation by 2:

6 oranges 2.50 dollars

Now, multiply both sides by 3 to get the cost for 18 oranges:

18 oranges 7.50 dollars

This confirms our previous calculation using the cost per unit approach.

Considerations for Real-World Scenarios

While the basic calculation provides a straightforward answer, it is important to consider real-world pricing strategies, such as bulk discounts or bulk packaging. For example:

Bulk Packaging: Oranges might be sold in packs of 12, meaning you would need to purchase two packs to get 18 oranges.

Bulk Discounts: The cost per orange might decrease if you buy more than 12 oranges, either due to a fixed discount or a bulk price. For instance, if the price per orange drops to 35 cents when purchasing more than 12, the cost of 18 oranges would be 18 × 0.35 6.30 dollars.

In conclusion, while the basic calculation provides a clear and accurate answer, it is crucial to consider additional factors such as bulk pricing and packaging strategies for a more comprehensive understanding of pricing.