OK, math nerds! I have a real life math problem for you?

Question

I like to core apples before I eat them because it's less messy. Now, does that mean I should buy bigger apples in order to maximize the "edible mass" / dollar ratio? Or it makes no difference?

Answer 1

If, as the second answerer noted, it is true that the core you remove is the same size around regardless of how large your apple is (which, in my experience, is usually what happens), then you should definitely buy bigger apples to maximize the edible mass per dollar ratio. You'll be removing the same amount of apple from a larger apple, which means you're removing a smaller *portion* of a large apple, which makes your edible mass per dollar ratio increase.

If you always cut out a core proportional in size to the size of the apple, then it doesn't matter what size apple you buy. (Personally, I'd buy smaller apples in this case, because you are less inclined to get more apple than you actually want and feel obligated to finish it because you started it.)

Answer 2

Now, I am not to sure what you mean by "edible mass". Bigger apple, smaller apple, what is the difference? It has nothing to do with either. You want to "maximize", and, there is only one way to do that. Eating more of the apple that is on hand. The only waste on my apple is the stem and the blossom. The stem is too hard to chew and the blossom sometimes has little mold or spider webs or bugs in it. So, you figure out what is the best way to eat an apple. Healthier is it to eat the whole thing. More vitamins, more fiber, more nutrients. Money saved on trash bags, and on the food bill.
Bon Appetite

Answer 3

Briefly - yes, buy bigger apples to get the most for your money.

The size of the core probably varies somewhat according to the size of the apple, but most corers I've seen take the same size hole out of the middle no matter what size the apple is, so if you buy small apples not only are you probably buying more core mass, you're also going to waste more of the flesh when you core it.

Of course, there's a question as to how important it is to get that extra 10% (or whatever) out of your apple budget. Unless you eat a LOT of apples I'd say it's probably not that important.

Answer 4

Depends, I'm not an apple expert so it all depends on how the ratio of the size of the core varies based on the size of the apple and the prices of the apples. Doubt it would alter too drastically though so buy whatever apples taste the best, thats what I say.