SOLUTION: Solve the following problem algebraically. That is, set up an equation and solve it. Be sure to label clearly what the variable represents. Two alloys, one 40% iron and the othe

Question 364023: Solve the following problem algebraically. That is, set up an equation and solve it. Be sure to label clearly what the variable represents.
Two alloys, one 40% iron and the other 60% iron, are to be melted down to form another alloy. How much of each alloy should be melted down and mixed to form 72 tons of an alloy that is 55% iron?
Answer by nerdybill(7384) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Two alloys, one 40% iron and the other 60% iron, are to be melted down to form another alloy. How much of each alloy should be melted down and mixed to form 72 tons of an alloy that is 55% iron?
.
Let x = tons of 40% iron
then
72-x = tons of 60% iron
.
.40x + .60(72-x) = .55(72)
.40x + 43.2 - .60x = 39.6
43.2 - .20x = 39.6
-.20x = -3.6
x = 18 tons (40% iron)
.
Amount of 60% iron:
72-x = 72-18 = 54 tons

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