Q. 2.21 - Elementary Algebra

Question

Translate into an algebraic equation and solve: The Pappas family has two cats, Zeus and Athena. Together, they weigh 23 pounds. Zeus weighs 16 pounds. How much does Athena weigh? 

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The translated equation is $w+16=23$ $\text{The weight of the Athena is 7 pounds}$

Step 1. Given information

Given: The Pappas family has two cats, Zeus and Athena. Together, they weigh 23 pounds. Zeus weighs 16 pounds. How much does Athena weigh?

We have to translate it into an algebraic equation and solve it.

Step 2. Explanation

$\begin{array}{l}\text{Given: Zeus weighs 16 pounds}\\ \text{Let w = weight of the Athena.}\\ \text{According to the given information}\\ \Rightarrow w+16=23 \text{Solve}\\ \text{Subtract 16 from each sides}\\ \Rightarrow w+16-16=23-16\\ \Rightarrow w=7\\ \text{The weight of the Athena is 7 pounds}\end{array}$