SOLUTION: In my algrebra class, we are currently solving word problems using graphing, substitution, or elimination. I have one question that I am absolutely stumped on. I cant figure out ho

Question 77641: In my algrebra class, we are currently solving word problems using graphing, substitution, or elimination. I have one question that I am absolutely stumped on. I cant figure out how to even begin to set the problem up. Here is the problem: A pastry chef created a 50ounce sugar solution that was 34% sugar from a 20% sugar solution and a 40% sugar solution. How much of the 20% sugar solution and how much of the 40% sugar solution were used? Can you please help me? ~Brandi~
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A pastry chef created a 50ounce sugar solution that was 34% sugar from a 20% sugar solution and a 40% sugar solution. How much of the 20% sugar solution and how much of the 40% sugar solution were used?
:
This is typical mixture problem. Learn this method and you can do all of them:
Let x = amt of 20% solution
:
The resulting amt is given as 50 oz, therefore
(50 - x) = amt of 40% solution
:
A simple equation using decimal equiv of %
.20(x) + .40(50-x) = .34(50)
.2x + 20 - .4x = 17
.2x - .4x = 17 - 20
-.2x = -3
x = -3/-.2
x = +15 oz of 20% solution
:
We said that the 40% solution is 50 - x, therefore:
50 - 15 = 35 oz of the 40% solution
:
:
Check our solution in the original equation:
.2(15) + .4(35) = .34(50)
3 + 14 = 17
:
How about this? Does it make sense to you now? Any questions?

RELATED QUESTIONS
In my algrebra class, we are currently solving word problems using graphing,... (answered by Earlsdon)

Hi my name is Matt and i'm in desperate need of help! In 2 weeks we are having finals at... (answered by solver91311,josmiceli)

in my math class we are solving linear equations using the subtitution method there two (answered by jim_thompson5910)

In my math class, we are working on factoring and solving for x. I have understood most... (answered by josgarithmetic)

Can anyone give me about 4 or 5 Word Problems that you use Substitution or Elimination to (answered by ptaylor)

i have to write my own linear system problem for school and solve it by using elimination (answered by nerdybill,ewatrrr)

In class we are doing systems of equations and solving by using substitution and... (answered by stanbon)

We are solving word problems using system of equations in my Algebra II class right now. (answered by josmiceli)

I'm in grade 10 math and have finished solving word problems using linear systems. We... (answered by ankor@dixie-net.com)