To convert an area from square centimeters ([tex]\(cm^2\)[/tex]) to square inches ([tex]\(in^2\)[/tex]), we use a specific conversion factor. The conversion factor between square centimeters and square inches is approximately [tex]\(0.15500031\)[/tex].
Here's a step-by-step solution to convert [tex]\(21 \,cm^2\)[/tex] to [tex]\(in^2\)[/tex]:
1. Identify the given area in square centimeters:
[tex]\[
21 \,cm^2
\][/tex]
2. Use the conversion factor:
[tex]\[
1 \,cm^2 = 0.15500031 \,in^2
\][/tex]
3. Multiply the area in [tex]\(cm^2\)[/tex] by the conversion factor to obtain the area in [tex]\(in^2\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
21 \, cm^2 \times 0.15500031 \, (in^2/cm^2) = 3.25500651 \, in^2
\][/tex]
4. Compare the calculated value to the provided options:
[tex]\[
3.25500651 \,in^2
\][/tex]
When we round this result to two decimal places, it is approximately:
[tex]\[
3.26 \, in^2
\][/tex]
5. Conclusion:
Among the given options, the value closest to our calculated area is [tex]\(3.26 \, in^2\)[/tex].
Therefore, the correct answer is:
[tex]\[
3.26 \, in^2
\][/tex]
