Math Problem of the Week - Algebra and Up - Oct. 31, 2021 to Nov. 6, 2021

Algebra and Up: 

Question: Max and Valerie are mixing a magic potion. Max pours 24 ounces of swamp water into the cauldron. Valerie pours 8 ounces of unicorn snot into the cauldron. How many more ounces of swamp water does Max need to add to the cauldron to dilute the mixture to 20% unicorn snot?

Answer: 8 ounces

Solution: Max and Valerie's potion is 24 + 8 = 32 ounces in total, and 8/32 = 25% of the mixture is unicorn snot. In order for the 8 ounces of unicorn snot to be 20% of the x -ounce mixture, 8 ÷ x = 20% and x = 40 ounces. So, since 40 – 32 = 8, 8 ounces of swamp water must be added to dilute the mixture to 20% unicorn snot.