College

Solve the problem:

The maximum weight for an elevator is 1600 pounds. You need to move boxes each weighing 40 pounds, and you weigh 145 pounds. Write an inequality that can be used to determine the maximum number of boxes that you can place in the elevator at one time. Assume only you and the boxes are in the elevator.

A. [tex]145 + 40n \leq 1600[/tex]
B. [tex]145 + 40n \geq 1600[/tex]
C. [tex]1600 - 145 \leq 40n[/tex]
D. [tex]1600 + 145 \geq 40n[/tex]

Please select the best answer from the choices provided:
A
B
C
D

Answer :

To solve this problem, let's break it down step-by-step:

1. Identify the total weight capacity of the elevator:
The maximum weight the elevator can hold is 1600 pounds.

2. Consider your weight:
You weigh 145 pounds. This means that when you're in the elevator, 145 pounds of the total capacity is already used.

3. Calculate the remaining weight capacity for the boxes:
To find out how much weight is available for the boxes, subtract your weight from the total capacity:
[tex]\(1600 - 145 = 1455\)[/tex] pounds.

4. Recognize the weight of each box:
Each box weighs 40 pounds.

5. Write the inequality:
You want to find how many boxes, represented by [tex]\(n\)[/tex], can fit in the elevator without exceeding the weight limit. Since each box weighs 40 pounds, the total weight of the boxes will be [tex]\(40n\)[/tex].

6. Set up the inequality:
The sum of your weight plus the weight of the boxes must not exceed the elevator’s capacity. So,
[tex]\(145 + 40n \leq 1600\)[/tex].

This inequality represents the maximum number of boxes you can take with you in the elevator at one time. Thus, the correct choice from the options provided is option C: [tex]\(145 + 40n \leq 1600\)[/tex].