Linear equations

Question

24. The dosage of a particular veterinary drug is determined based upon the animal’s weight. The standard dosage for a 20 pound dog is 3 mg; but the dosage is increased by 1.5 mg for each additional 5 pounds of weight.

a. Create a linear equation that allows us to calculate the proper dosage for a dog that weighs x pounds.

b. What would be the proper dosage for a 37 pound dog?

c. A vet finds that 11 mg of the drug is left in the bottle. What is the largest dog that could

be treated with this remaining dose?

Answer 1

20 lb = 3mg

+ 5 = + 1.5mg

20 + 5x = 3 + 1.5mgx

37lb = 20 + (3x5lb)

37lb = 3mg + (3 x 1.5mg)

37lb = 3mg + 4.5mg

37lb = 7.5mg