1. **Problem Statement:** We have a benchmark blob with area $b$ cm$^2$. We need to estimate the areas of four different shapes in terms of $b$. 2. **Understanding the Problem:** The benchmark blob's area is $b$. Each shape's area will be expressed as a multiple or fraction of $b$ based on visual comparison. 3. **Estimations:** - (a) Circle: This shape looks approximately the same size as the benchmark blob, so its area is about $b$. - (b) Elongated irregular blob: This shape appears roughly twice as large as the benchmark blob, so its area is about $2b$. - (c) Small rounded square blob: This shape looks about half the size of the benchmark blob, so its area is about $\frac{b}{2}$. - (d) Tiny irregular small blob: This shape is much smaller, roughly one quarter the size of the benchmark blob, so its area is about $\frac{b}{4}$. 4. **Summary:** $$\text{Area}(a) \approx b$$ $$\text{Area}(b) \approx 2b$$ $$\text{Area}(c) \approx \frac{b}{2}$$ $$\text{Area}(d) \approx \frac{b}{4}$$ These are rough estimates based on visual comparison to the benchmark blob of area $b$ cm$^2$.