Not sure on a reasonable estimate for the weight of a pencil. Out of the choices given I have it narrowed down to 1x10^-2 lbs or 1 x 10^-20 lbs. I know it is not the other 2 choices because they are positive exponents and would be too heavy. Thanks.
1x10^-2 = 1/100 lbs = 4/25 oz
seems a bit light, but it's a lot closer than
10^-20 = 1/100000000000000000000 lbs!!!
To estimate the weight of a pencil, it might be helpful to use some reference points.
First, let's convert the given options into more familiar units. 1 x 10^-2 lbs is equal to 0.01 lbs, which is approximately 0.45 grams. On the other hand, 1 x 10^-20 lbs is an extremely small weight and is likely an unrealistic value.
Now, let's compare these estimations to common pencil weights. The weight of a standard wooden pencil typically ranges between 0.1 to 0.3 ounces (or 2.8 to 8.5 grams). So, based on this information, it seems that the estimate of 0.45 grams or 0.01 lbs falls within a reasonable range for the weight of a pencil.
Therefore, out of the given choices, the estimate of 1 x 10^-2 lbs (or 0.01 lbs) seems more reasonable for the weight of a pencil.