Question

A scientist has two solutions, which she has labeled Solution A and Solution B. Each contains salt. She knows that Solution A is 45% salt and Solution B is 95% salt. She wants to obtain 160 ounces of a mixture that is 60% salt. How many ounces of each solution should she use?
EXPLANATION

Answer 1

Answer:

She needs 112 ounces of Solution A and 48 ounces of Solution B.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a is the ounces of Solution A, and b is the ounces of Solution B, then:

a + b = 160

0.45a + 0.95b = 0.60(160)

Solve the system of equations.  Using substitution:

0.45a + 0.95(160 − a) = 0.60(160)

0.45a + 152 − 0.95a = 96

56 = 0.5a

a = 112

b = 48

She needs 112 ounces of Solution A and 48 ounces of Solution B.