Question

which number is closest to \\(\sqrt{203}\\) ? 13.9 13.6 14.2 15.5

Explanation:

Step1: Square each option

$13.9^2 = 193.21$, $13.6^2 = 184.96$, $14.2^2 = 201.64$, $15.5^2 = 240.25$

Step2: Find difference from 203

$|203 - 193.21| = 9.79$, $|203 - 184.96| = 18.04$, $|203 - 201.64| = 1.36$, $|203 - 240.25| = 37.25$

Step3: Identify smallest difference

The smallest difference is 1.36, corresponding to 14.2.

Answer:

14.2