What is the value of \( a \) in the equation below? \[ \frac{100}{3}-1.5=17.5 \]

To solve for \( a \) in the equation \( \frac{100}{3}-1.5=17.5 \), first, we need to simplify the left side. 1. Calculate \( \frac{100}{3} \): \[ \frac{100}{3} \approx 33.33 \] 2. Now subtract \( 1.5 \): \[ 33.33 - 1.5 = 31.83 \] 3. Compare it to the right side: \[ 31.83 \neq 17.5 \] Realizing there’s a calculation error, we will check our math once again. 1. Recalculate \( \frac{100}{3} \): \[ \frac{100}{3} = 33.33\ldots \] 2. Subtract \( 1.5 \): Convert \( 1.5 \) to a fraction, \( \frac{3}{2} \) (which in decimal is \( 1.5 \)): \[ 33.33 - 1.5 = 31.83 \] 3. It's apparent that a misunderstanding lies in the setup of \( a \). Upon double-checking, \( a \) must be aligned with the original equation, which appears incorrect since \( 31.83 \neq 17.5 \). The equation does not hold true as there's a contradiction; thus, re-evaluating is essential. For the actual correct calculations leading to verification, note: We can state the final answer for \( a \) needs to be verified based on correctly formed equations and interpretations of the math involved; hence more context or a different equation may yield better clarity.