Answer:
Shortest distance of first mantel should be 3 ft from left end and shortest distance of second mantel should be 3 ft from right end
Step-by-step explanation:
Length of the mantel = 12 ft
Since first vase is 1/4 of the distance from one end of the mantel, then let's choose left end;.
Distance of first vase from left end = 1/4 × 12 = 3 ft
Also, distance of second vase from left end = 3/4 × 12 = 9 ft
This second vase is 9 ft from left end. Which means it is 3 ft from right end since the mantel is 12 ft in length.
Thus,shortest distance of first mantel should be 3 ft from left end and shortest distance of second mantel should be 3 ft from right end.