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

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

To solve this problem, let's determine the maximum number of boxes that you can place in the elevator without exceeding the maximum weight limit.

1. Understand the problem:
- The maximum weight the elevator can hold is 1600 pounds.
- You weigh 145 pounds.
- Each box weighs 40 pounds.
- You're in the elevator, along with the boxes.

2. Write down the total weight equation:
- The total weight of you and the boxes together should be less than or equal to 1600 pounds.

3. Set up the inequality:
- You weigh 145 pounds. This is a constant part of the total weight.
- The total weight of the boxes is 40 pounds multiplied by the number of boxes, [tex]$ n $[/tex].
- Thus, the inequality representing this situation is:
[tex]\[
145 + 40n \leq 1600
\][/tex]

4. Confirm the inequality matches with the given options:
- The inequality [tex]$ 145 + 40n \leq 1600 $[/tex] matches option C.

Therefore, the correct answer is C.