Chapter 10, Problem 35A

Keeping in mind the concept from the previous question, a taxi driver wishes to increase his fares by adjusting the size of his tires. Should he change to larger tires or smaller tires?

To determine

To identify: Whether the tires size should be changed to larger ones or smaller ones in order to increase the taxi fare.

Answer to Problem 35A

Smaller tires.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Smaller tires cover a longer distance. An odometer helps in measuring distance.

Smaller tires cover more distance per revolution compared to larger ones. The odometer and speedometer measures distance traveled and the speed at which the vehicle is running. The odometer is linked to the taxi meter. Thus, when numbers in Odometer go bigger, the fare goes high too.

Furthermore, inflating tires at low pressure also helps. But, with the larger tires, distance per revolution would decrease leads to lesser distance covered and ultimately, lesser taxi fare.

Conclusion:

Smaller tires give more revolutions, thus more numbers in the distance which makes more money for the taxi driver.