Question

using the paths shown, how long is the shortest route from lowell to ashland? lowell 11.9 mi newport 6.2 mi 7 mi 5.4 mi allenville ashland mi

Explanation:

Step1: Identify possible routes

There are two possible routes from Lowell to Ashland: Lowell - Newport - Ashland and Lowell - Allenville - Newport - Ashland.

Step2: Calculate length of first route

The length of the Lowell - Newport - Ashland route is $11.9+5.4 = 17.3$ miles.

Step3: Calculate length of second route

The length of the Lowell - Allenville - Newport - Ashland route is $6.2 + 7+5.4=18.6$ miles.

Step4: Compare lengths

Since $17.3<18.6$, the shortest route is Lowell - Newport - Ashland.

Answer:

$17.3$