Estimate the sum by rounding each number to the nearest whole number and then adding.9.97 + 2.4 + 6.34

1. Break Down the Problem

To estimate the sum of the numbers $9.97 + 2.4 + 6.34$, we will round each number to the nearest whole number before adding them together.

2. Relevant Concepts

Rounding rules apply here:

• If the decimal part is 0.5 or greater, round up.
• If the decimal part is less than 0.5, round down.

3. Analysis and Detail

• Rounding each number:
  1. $9.97$ rounds to $10$ (since $0.97$ is greater than $0.5$).
  2. $2.4$ rounds to $2$ (since $0.4$ is less than $0.5$).
  3. $6.34$ rounds to $6$ (since $0.34$ is less than $0.5$).

4. Verify and Summarize

Now, adding the rounded numbers together: $10 + 2 + 6 = 18$

Final Answer

The estimated sum is $18$.