Round both measurements to estimate the sum or difference.
To estimate the results, we first round each measurement to the nearest hundred. The rule for rounding to the nearest hundred is to look at the tens digit:
For the first expression, \(252 \text{ cm} - 147 \text{ cm}\):
The estimated difference is \(300 - 100 = 200\). Thus, \(252 \text{ cm} - 147 \text{ cm} \approx 200 \text{ cm}\).
For the second expression, \(418 \text{ L} + 566 \text{ L}\):
The estimated sum is \(400 + 600 = 1000\). Thus, \(418 \text{ L} + 566 \text{ L} \approx 1000 \text{ L}\).
Estimating values is a vital skill in daily life, especially when you need a quick answer without doing exact arithmetic. For example, if you are shopping and see items costing \$252 and \$147, you can quickly estimate that the difference in price is about \$100 by rounding both numbers to \$300 and \$100. Similarly, if you are measuring water for two large tanks, knowing that about 400 L plus 600 L equals 1000 L helps you quickly gauge the total capacity needed. These techniques allow you to make fast, informed decisions when precise calculations are not strictly necessary.