Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 100
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Mixed decimal and fractional forms often hide very simple structures. Here, a small difference of squares is scaled by dividing through 0.0001 (one ten-thousandth), then adjusted by adding 1. Interpreting the layout correctly is crucial; this repaired reading aligns with common textbook formatting and the provided choices.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Compute (0.1)^2 and (0.01)^2 first, subtract, then divide by 0.0001. Finally add 1. Dividing by 0.0001 multiplies by 10,000, which greatly magnifies small differences.
Step-by-Step Solution:
(0.1)^2 = 0.01; (0.01)^2 = 0.0001.Difference: 0.01 − 0.0001 = 0.0099.Divide by 0.0001: 0.0099 ÷ 0.0001 = 0.0099 × 10,000 = 99.Add 1: 99 + 1 = 100.
Verification / Alternative check:
As fractions: 0.1 = 1/10 ⇒ (1/10)^2 = 1/100; 0.01 = 1/100 ⇒ (1/100)^2 = 1/10,000. Difference = 1/100 − 1/10,000 = 99/10,000. Dividing by 1/10,000 gives 99; plus 1 yields 100.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Parsing the layout incorrectly (e.g., dividing by 1.0001 or adding inside the denominator), or forgetting that ÷ 0.0001 = × 10,000.
Final Answer:
100
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