Question 878683

Let x be what we are looking for.

0.80x + 0.40x = 0.50(600)

1.20x = 300

1.20x = 300

x = 250

Now that we know x, multiply 0.80 by 250 to find the quantity of an 80% acid solution.

So, 250 * 0.80 = 200

The answer is 200. 

If we want to know the quantity for the 40% acid solution, multiply 250 by 0.40.

So, 250 * 0.40 = 100.

Here is the Prove

Let x = 250 in the equation above.

0.80(250) + 0.40(250) = 300

200 + 100 = 300

300 = 300

Did you follow? The most important thing to master when dealing with word problems is setting up the right equation leading to the answer. This comes with practice.