Question

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

Answer 1

120 ounces of Solution A; 60 ounces of Solution B

Explanation:

Let the amounts of solution A and solution B be x and y, respectively.

Equation of the amount of solution:

x + y = 180

Equation of the amount of salt:

0.4x + 0.55y = 0.45 × 180

x + y = 180

40x + 55y = 8100

40x + 55y = 8100

-40x - 40y = -7200

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15y = 900

y = 60

x + y = 180

x + 60 = 180

x = 120

Answer:

120 ounces of Solution A; 60 ounces of Solution B