Multiple choice

If 12 ounces of a strong vinegar solution are diluted with 50 ounces of water to form a three-percent vinegar solution, what was the concentration of the original solution?

  1. 19.3%

  2. 17%

  3. 16.67%

  4. 15.5%

  5. 12.5%
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Let x be the concentration. 12x = 0.03 * (12 + 50). 12x = 0.03 * 62. 12x = 1.86. x = 1.86 / 12 = 0.155, which is 15.5%.

AI explanation

The final mixture has a total volume of 12 ounces plus 50 ounces, equaling 62 ounces. Since the final solution is 3 percent vinegar, the amount of vinegar is 0.03 times 62, which is 1.86 ounces. This 1.86 ounces was entirely present in the original 12 ounces, making the original concentration 1.86 divided by 12, or 15.5 percent.

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