Let’s dive into the intriguing world of pizza sizes and prices! If you’re a pizza enthusiast looking to maximize your order, this discussion on the fascinating math behind pizza sizes and prices might just revolutionize the way you choose your next pie.
Picture this scenario: you’re torn between an 8-inch pizza and a 16-inch pizza. How much bigger do you think the 16-inch pizza is compared to the 8-inch one? If you guessed twice the size, think again. In reality, a 16-inch pizza is actually four times larger than an 8-inch pizza. Size truly does matter when it comes to pizza!
A revealing study conducted by NPR analyzed prices from over 3,600 pizza establishments across the U.S. using data from Grubhub Seamless. The study uncovered a surprising revelation: opting for a larger pizza is more cost-effective because the price per square inch is lower.
While a 16-inch pizza is four times the size of an 8-inch pizza, the price disparity is not proportional. The larger pizza is priced much less than four times the smaller one. Understanding this difference in price per unit (square inch) can be a bit perplexing at first glance. This is why considering the price per unit is crucial when making purchasing decisions.
To gain a better grasp of a pizza’s size, it’s essential to utilize your math skills and calculate the area using the formula πr², where r represents the radius (half the diameter) of the pizza. For instance, a 16-inch pizza would have a radius of 8 inches, while an 8-inch pizza would have a radius of 4 inches.
When focusing on popular pizza chain Pizza Hut, the study uncovered that the price per square inch diminishes as you opt for larger sizes. A personal pan pizza with a 6-inch diameter is priced at $4.50, a medium 12-inch pizza costs $9.99, and a large 14-inch pizza is priced at $11.99. The larger the pizza, the lower the price per square inch, making it a more economical choice overall.
So, the next time you’re hankering for pizza, remember: it’s not just about the toppings, but also about the math behind the size and price. By comprehending the numbers, you can maximize the value of your pizza order. Enjoy your meal!
