Inequalities

Question

A veterinarian tells Max that his cat should lose no more than 30 ounces. The veterinarian suggests that the cat should lose 7 ounces or less per week. What is the shortest time in weeks and days it would take Max’s cat to lose the 30 ounces?

Answer 1

Hi Natalie,

 

The shortest time can be achieved if the cat loses weight at the maximum possible rate of 7 ounces per week.

 

R = 7 ounces / week

 

R = ΔW/Δt, or the rate is the change in weight W with respect to a corresponding change in time.

 

ΔW = 30 ounces

 

Solve for Δt = ΔW/R = (30 ounces)/(7 ounces / week) = 4 2/7 weeks = 4 weeks and 2 days