To specify how many cups of flour should be used in a bread recipe, we should use a non-negative number, as the amount of flour cannot be negative. Let's analyze the options:
- Square root of 3: This is a positive number (approximately 1.73), so it could be used.
- 47: This is a positive whole number, so it could be used.
- 4/7: This is a positive fraction (approximately 0.57), so it could be used.
- -3: This is negative and cannot be used.
- 234: This is a positive whole number, so it could be used.
Considering all these points, the numbers that could be used to specify how many cups of flour are: square root of 3, 47, 4/7, and 234.
However, since the question asks for only one answer, the most reasonable choice for specifying cups of flour, particularly in a traditional recipe context, would be:
47
It is a clear and easily understood amount.