How many 1/2-inch tiles would colby need to cover the top of the box if its 7 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches wide. (how do you know, describe step by step)

7.5*5.5=41.25
41.25*2=82.5
Colby would need 82.5 1/2 inch tiles

1. You have to convert 7 1/2 and 5 1/2 to improper fractions FIRST. 15/2 and 11/2 2. Then multiply the two fractions together. 15/2 multiplied by 11/2 equals 165/2 then divide to get 82.5 inches 3. Now that you have 82.5 inches you have to multiply it by 2 because there are two 1/2 inches in every inch. 82.5 multiplied by 2 equals 165 of the 1/2 tiles. 4. If you are doing part B of the problem then you would multiply 165 by 4 equals 660 for 1/4 inch tiles. I hope this is helpful :0) I am a 5th grade teacher.