clearly define variables. set up the equations.How many gallons of a 30% alcohol solution must be mixed with 60 gallons of a 14% solution to obtain a solution that is 20% alcohol?

Question

x represents?
y represents?
equation 1?
equation 2?

Answer 1

amount of 30% solution --- x gal
amount of 14% stuff ------ 60-x

solve for x

.30x + .14(60-x) = .20(60)

or if you want two variables:

x+y = 60
.30x + .14y = .20(60)