Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: A = 30 L, B = 60 L
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This problem combines percentage removal with total volume tracking. The key is to express what remains of each liquid after withdrawing fixed percentages and then use the final fullness (60% of capacity) to solve for the initial split of A and B.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
After withdrawal, remaining A = 40% of x (i.e., 0.4x). Remaining B = 70% of (90 − x) (i.e., 0.7*(90 − x)). Their sum must equal 54 L because the container is 60% full.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Withdrawn A = 60% of 30 = 18 L; remaining A = 12 L. Withdrawn B = 30% of 60 = 18 L; remaining B = 42 L. Total remaining = 12 + 42 = 54 L = 60% of 90 L, consistent.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Other pairs do not satisfy the condition 0.4x + 0.7(90 − x) = 54; they either overfill or underfill relative to the 60% final level.
Common Pitfalls:
Subtracting percentages from the total instead of per-component; forgetting that 40% empty means 60% full (54 L).
Final Answer:
A = 30 L, B = 60 L
Discussion & Comments