Question

In a chemical compound, there are 3 parts zinc for every 16 parts copper, by mass. A piece of the compound contains 320 grams copper. Write and solve an equation to determine the amount of zinc in the chemical compound.

Answer 1

Chemical compound has 60 grams zinc for 320 grams of copper.

Explanation:

In the given chemical compound:

Ratio of Zinc : Copper = 3 : 16

Let us assume the compound has m parts zinc for 320 parts copper.

⇒Ratio of Zinc : Copper = m : 320

Now, by the Ratio of Proportionality:

3 : 16 = m : 320

`\implies(3)/(16)  = (m)/(320)\\ \implies m =(3)/(16)  * 320 = 60`

or, m = 60

Hence, chemical compound has 60 grams zinc for 320 grams of copper.