Chapter CSB1.2, Problem 32E

To determine

To find: The dimensions of the largest squares Suki can cut from both fabrics so there is no wasted fabric.

Answer to Problem 32E

6 inches

Explanation of Solution

Given information:

Suki is making a quilt from two different kinds of fabrics. One is 48 inches wide and the other is 54 inches wide.

Calculation:

The dimension of the largest squares that can be cut from fabrics of dimensions 48 inches and 54 inches wide is the GCF of 48 and 54.

The prime factors of 48 and 54 are,

  $\begin{array}{l}48=2\cdot 2\cdot 2\cdot 2\cdot 3\\ 54=2\cdot 3\cdot 3\cdot 3\end{array}$

The greatest common factor of 48 and 54 is $2\cdot 3\text{ or 6}$ .

Thus, the dimension of the largest square is 6 inches wide.