Solve the problem.
-Two different gasohol mixtures are available. One contains 5% alcohol and the other 12% alcohol. How much of each should be mixed to obtain 1000 gal of gasohol containing 10% alcohol?
A) 714 gal 5%; 714 gal 12%
B) 417 gal 5%; 583 gal 12%
C) 50 gal 5%; 120 gal 12%
D) 286 gal 5%; 714 gal 12%

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To solve this, we use the method of weighted averages. Let x be the amount of 5% alcohol mixture, and (1000 - x) be the amount of 12% alcohol mixture. The equation to represent the situation is: 0.05x + 0.12(1000 - x) = 0.10(1000). Solving for x gives x = 286 gallons for the 5% mixture, and thus 714 gallons for the 12% mixture.

Solve the Problem. -Two Different Gasohol Mixtures Are Available. One Contains 5% Alcohol