In arithmetic conversion, how many feet are there in exactly one metre (1 m), to five decimal places?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 3.28084

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This arithmetic reasoning question checks knowledge of a standard unit conversion between the metric system and the imperial system. The conversion between metres and feet is often needed in quantitative aptitude, physics, and engineering problems. Here, you are asked specifically how many feet correspond to one metre, given to five decimal places.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The question uses the standard international definition of the metre and the foot.
  • We are asked for the number of feet in exactly one metre.
  • The answer is to be selected from the given decimal approximations.


Concept / Approach:
The internationally accepted relationship is that 1 inch is exactly 2.54 centimetres, and 1 foot is 12 inches. Consequently, 1 foot equals 30.48 centimetres. A metre is 100 centimetres. Therefore, to find how many feet are in a metre, we divide 100 centimetres by 30.48 centimetres per foot. The result is approximately 3.28084 feet per metre. Recognizing or recalling this standard factor is extremely useful for quick conversions in many aptitude questions.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Use the standard conversion 1 inch = 2.54 centimetres. Step 2: Since 1 foot = 12 inches, 1 foot = 12 * 2.54 = 30.48 centimetres. Step 3: 1 metre = 100 centimetres by definition. Step 4: Number of feet in 1 metre = total centimetres in 1 metre divided by centimetres per foot. Step 5: Compute 100 / 30.48, which is approximately 3.28084. Step 6: Compare this with the options; option B gives 3.28084, matching the correct conversion factor.


Verification / Alternative check:
As a check, reverse the conversion. If 1 metre equals 3.28084 feet, then 3.28084 feet multiplied by 30.48 centimetres per foot equals approximately 100 centimetres. This round trip consistency confirms that 3.28084 is accurate to five decimal places and that the other decimals are not correct representations of 1 metre in feet.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A 3.214, C 3.2516, and D 3.21456 are close in magnitude but do not yield exactly 100 centimetres when converted back. They correspond to incorrect or approximate conversion factors. Only 3.28084 matches the accepted international standard for metre to feet conversion.


Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes memorize approximate values like 3.3 feet for 1 metre and then misinterpret them as exact. Others confuse the reciprocal conversion 1 foot ≈ 0.3048 metre with the direction from metre to feet. Remembering the more precise value 3.28084 for competitive exams allows for more accurate calculations in related problems.


Final Answer:
Exactly one metre is equal to approximately 3.28084 feet.

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