Let's analyze each step carefully to identify where the error occurs:
1. Step 1: volts × amps = watts, write down formula
This step states the basic formula from electrical engineering correctly: [tex]\( \text{volts} \times \text{amps} = \text{watts} \)[/tex]. There is no error in this step as it correctly presents the relationship between volts, amps, and watts.
2. Step 2: [tex]\(120 \times ? = 60\)[/tex], fill in what is known
Here, we substitute the known values into the formula:
- We know the voltage ([tex]\( \text{volts} \)[/tex]) is 120.
- We know the power ([tex]\( \text{watts} \)[/tex]) is 60.
This simplifies the equation to [tex]\( 120 \times ? = 60 \)[/tex]. This step correctly sets up the equation for solving the unknown (amps).
3. Step 3: It looks like 0.5 will work, check
In this step, the solution is guessed rather than calculated. Here, guessing the value to check if it works is the problematic part. Ideally, we should solve the equation algebraically instead of guessing:
- From [tex]\( 120 \times ? = 60 \)[/tex]
- Solving for the unknown gives [tex]\( ? = \frac{60}{120} = 0.5 \)[/tex] amps.
However, this step should involve a clear mathematical approach rather than just stating that "it looks like 0.5 will work."
4. Step 4: amps = 0.5
This step follows from the previous steps if solved correctly: [tex]\( \text{amps} = 0.5 \)[/tex]. Thus, it accurately states the current in amperes, assuming correct calculations.
Given these analyses, the error occurs in Step 3: you can't just guess at a solution. The correct approach is to calculate it explicitly.
So, the correct answer is:
C. Step 3, because you can't just guess at a solution.
