GED Mathematical Reasoning TestAlgebraic Problem Solving with Expressions and EquationsEasy
A nutritionist is creating a meal plan. They want the total calories (C) from two types of food, Food A and Food B, to be exactly 1500. Food A has 250 calories per serving (x) and Food B has 150 calories per serving (y). Which equation represents this scenario?
- Ax + y = 1500
- B150x + 250y = 1500
- C400(x + y) = 1500
- D250x + 150y = 1500
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 250x + 150y = 1500
The total calories from Food A is 250x and from Food B is 150y. The sum of these must equal the total desired calories, 1500.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This equation incorrectly assumes that the number of servings directly equals 1500 calories without considering the caloric content per serving.
- B. This equation incorrectly assigns the caloric content to the wrong food types.
- C. This equation incorrectly sums the caloric content per serving before multiplying by the number of servings.
Translating Word Problems to Linear Equations
This involves converting a real-world scenario described in words into a mathematical equation that uses variables to represent unknown quantities and operations to describe relationships.
- Identify the unknown quantities and assign variables (e.g., x, y).
- Look for keywords that indicate mathematical operations (e.g., 'sum' for addition, 'product' for multiplication).
- Set up the equation based on the given relationships and total values.
Memory trick: Read carefully, assign variables, build the math bridge.