What is the total length you must cut for a block if it measures 3.125 inches and requires an additional 1/8 of an inch for finish machining?

To determine the total length that needs to be cut for the block, you start with the original measurement of the block, which is 3.125 inches. Additionally, you need to account for extra material needed for finish machining, which is specified as 1/8 of an inch.

To find the total length, you simply add the original block length to the additional length required for machining. First, you convert 1/8 of an inch into a decimal for convenience, which is 0.125 inches. Now, you add 3.125 inches (the original block size) to 0.125 inches (the extra material for machining):

3.125 inches + 0.125 inches = 3.250 inches.

Thus, the total length that must be cut is 3.250 inches. This ensures that there is enough material for both the original size and any adjustments needed during the finish machining process.