Alligation–Mixture (Juice Blend Adjustment): A jar has fruit juice:water = 5:x. Taking 4 L of this blend and adding 1 L water makes the ratio 1:1. Find x.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This problem mixes proportion extraction with a post-addition constraint to solve for an unknown x.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Blend ratio 5:x (juice:water).
  • From 4 L of blend, then add 1 L water; new ratio becomes 1:1.


Concept / Approach:
Compute juice and water in the 4 L sample, then impose equality after adding 1 L water.



Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Juice in 4 L = 4 * (5/(5+x)); water in 4 L = 4 * (x/(5+x)).2) After adding 1 L water, set: 4*(5/(5+x)) = 4*(x/(5+x)) + 1.3) Multiply through by (5+x): 20 = 4x + (5 + x) ⇒ 20 = 5x + 5 ⇒ x = 3.



Verification / Alternative check:
With x=3, initial fraction of juice = 5/8; in 4 L that is 2.5 L; water in 4 L is 1.5 L; after +1 L water ⇒ 2.5 : 2.5 = 1:1.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1, 2, 4 do not satisfy the equality condition.



Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to add the extra 1 L only to water.



Final Answer:
3

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