Question

In a certain chemical, the ratio of zinc to copper is 3 to 14. A jar of the chemical contains 686 grams of copper. How many grams of zinc does it contain?

Answer 1

Ratios and fractions are connected. A ratio of 3 to 14 is the same thing as 3/14. Multiply 686 by 3/14. You will get 147. That is your amount of zinc. If we simplify 147/686, or 147:686, we get 3:14 confirming our answer.

Answer 2

• 147 grams of zinc

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Let the amount of zinc be x. Then we have equal ratios:

• 3/14 = x/686

Solve it for x:

• x = 686*3/14
• x = 147