Mixture Problem -- Algebra I

Question

Professor Stevens wants to mix a solution containing 13% acid with one containing 18% acid to obtain a 50 milliliter solution containing 16% acid. How many milliliiers of the 13% solution should the professor use?

Answer 1

Jennifer,

Set up a system of equations representing what you know.

 

A = amount of 13% solution

B = amount of 18% solution

 

A + B = 50ml      .13A + .18B = .16(50)

 

B = 50 - A           .13A + .18(50 - A) = 8

 

                         .13A - .18A + 9 = 8

 

                           -.05A = -1

 

                                  A = 20ml