A machinist must cut 12 strips of metal that are each \( 2 \mathrm{ft} 6 \frac{7}{8} \) in. long. What is the total length needed in inches? The total length of the piece of metal needed is \( \square \) in.

To find the total length of metal needed, follow these steps: 1. **Convert Feet to Inches:** - There are 12 inches in 1 foot. - \( 2 \) feet \( = 2 \times 12 = 24 \) inches. 2. **Add the Remaining Inches:** - Each strip is \( 2 \) feet \( 6 \frac{7}{8} \) inches long. - Total length per strip in inches is \( 24 \) inches (from feet) \( + 6 \frac{7}{8} \) inches \( = 30 \frac{7}{8} \) inches. 3. **Calculate the Total Length for 12 Strips:** - Multiply the length of one strip by 12. - \( 12 \times 30 \frac{7}{8} \) inches: \[ 12 \times 30 = 360 \text{ inches} \] \[ 12 \times \frac{7}{8} = \frac{84}{8} = 10.5 \text{ inches} \] \[ 360 \text{ inches} + 10.5 \text{ inches} = 370.5 \text{ inches} \] \[ 370.5 \text{ inches} = 370 \frac{1}{2} \text{ inches} \] **Final Answer:** \[ \boxed{370\,\dfrac{1}{2}\text{ in.}} \]