R O S E B E D -- M O R E   Q U E S T  I O N S ! ! !

(Math in E V E R Y D A Y    L I F E)

Dr. Robert J. Rapalje

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL  32773

Follow-up Math Problems  --  When you answer a math question, you just get MORE questions!!

1.       If all this dirt is to be replaced with one third compost, one third leaves, and one third regular dirt, then how many cubic yards of compost are needed (see picture below)?  If you can buy compost for $10 per cubic yard (assuming that you or someone you know has a truck!), or by the bag, each bag being 1 cubic foot, at $1.29 per bag, how much will it cost for compost, and which way is cheaper?

2.       If a border is to be made around the flower bed using paving blocks that measure 1 foot across, and two levels of blocks high (see picture below!), how many paving blocks must be purchased?

3.       If each paving block weighs 25 pounds, how many tons of blocks must be transported to the site of the rose-bed?  If your car can safely carry 1 ton of cargo, is it safe to carry this many blocks in one trip?  How many trips will be necessary?   

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4.      OOPS!!  Dr. Rapalje miscalculated the number of blocks!  While the edge of the hole is a circle with 18-foot diameter, the blocks are actually laid OUTSIDE of the hole, with the circumference of the circle measured using widest points of the blocks.   While the rose-bed has a diameter of 18 feet, the diameter of the circle formed by the blocks is actually 20 feet.   How many blocks are needed?  (Back to the store to buy more blocks!!)

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5.      Allowing for a fountain that is 3 feet across in the center, how many rose bushes will fit in this garden, if the base of each rose bush must be 3 feet from the base of the next bush?

Click here for the solution  -- COMING SOON!!

6.      Roses have to be sprayed with a fungicide every week.  The spray can be purchased in two different concentrates, to be described later.  Given the details of spraying (later!), which is the most economical way to buy the spray?

Click here for the solution  -- COMING SOON!!

COMING SOON -- pictures of roses!!

Do you have a problem from YOUR everyday life??  If I can solve and use your problem, please send an Email, giving your first name, city, and state (or country), and send an Email to  

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