Question

which number is closest to $-sqrt{271}$? -15.6 -16.4 -15.7 -17.1

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate square of -15.6

$(-15.6)^2 = 15.6^2 = 243.36$

Step2: Calculate square of -15.7

$(-15.7)^2 = 15.7^2 = 246.49$

Step3: Calculate square of -16.4

$(-16.4)^2 = 16.4^2 = 268.96$

Step4: Calculate square of -17.1

$(-17.1)^2 = 17.1^2 = 292.41$

Step5: Find differences from 271

$|271 - 243.36| = 27.64$
$|271 - 246.49| = 24.51$
$|271 - 268.96| = 2.04$
$|271 - 292.41| = 21.41$

Step6: Identify smallest difference

The smallest difference is 2.04, corresponding to -16.4.

Answer:

-16.4