Let P = (0.08)^2, Q = 1/(0.08)^2, and R = (1 − 0.08)^2 − 1. Identify the correct ordering/relationship among P, Q, and R.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: R < P < Q

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question examines decimal computation and comparison, including a small square, its reciprocal square, and a shifted square minus 1.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • P = (0.08)^2
  • Q = 1/(0.08)^2
  • R = (1 − 0.08)^2 − 1


Concept / Approach:
Compute each value exactly and then compare. Beware that squaring a small decimal gives a very small positive number, while the reciprocal square becomes large. A near-one square minus 1 will be negative.


Step-by-Step Solution:

P = (0.08)^2 = 0.0064Q = 1 / 0.0064 = 156.25(1 − 0.08) = 0.92 ⇒ 0.92^2 = 0.8464 ⇒ R = 0.8464 − 1 = −0.1536Ordering: R (−0.1536) < P (0.0064) < Q (156.25)


Verification / Alternative check:
Estimate check: 0.08^2 is clearly tiny positive; reciprocal square is very large; a number close to 1 squared then minus 1 is a small negative. The ordering matches intuition.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any option claiming P = R is false since P ≈ 0.0064 and R ≈ −0.1536. Options reversing the order ignore signs or magnitude.


Common Pitfalls:
Misplacing decimal points; forgetting that reciprocals of numbers less than 1 are greater than 1; sign errors when subtracting 1.


Final Answer:
R < P < Q

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