Question

If each edge of a cube is increased by $50\%$, then what will be its percentage increase in total surface area?

• A. $125\%$
• B. $150\%$
• C. $110\%$
• D. $175\%$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $125\%$

Let the edge $=a\text{cm}$
New edge after increase $=a+50\%a=a+\frac{a}{2}=\frac{3a}{2}$
Total surface area of original cube $=6a^2$

TSA of new cube $=6\times {\left(\frac{3a}{2}\right)}^2=6\times \frac{9a^2}{4}=2.25\times 6a^2$

Increase in TSA $=[2.25\times 6a^2]-\left[6a^2\right]=(2.25-1)\times 6a^2=1.25\times 6a^2$

$\Rightarrow$ Percentage increase = $\frac{IncreaseinTSA}{TSAoforiginalcube}\times 100$

$\Rightarrow$ Percentage increase = $\frac{1.25\times 6a^2}{6a^2}\times 100$
$\Rightarrow$ Percentage increase = 125%