To convert 5.5 pounds to ounces, it's important to choose the correct conversion ratio that relates ounces to pounds. We know that there are 16 ounces in 1 pound.
The correct ratio we should use is [tex]\(\frac{16 \text{ ounces}}{1 \text{ pound}}\)[/tex]. This means that for every 1 pound, there are 16 ounces.
### Detailed Steps:
1. Identify the given information:
- We need to convert 5.5 pounds to ounces.
- We know the conversion factor: 1 pound is equal to 16 ounces.
2. Choose the appropriate ratio:
- To convert pounds to ounces, the ratio of ounces per pound should be used.
- The correct ratio from the options provided is: [tex]\(\frac{16 \text{ ounces}}{1 \text{ pound}}\)[/tex].
By using this ratio, we make sure we are multiplying by a value that will cancel out the pounds and leave us with ounces. Therefore, the correct answer is:
[tex]\[ \boxed{D. \frac{16 \text{ ounces}}{1 \text{ pound}}} \][/tex]