Let \( t \) be the time in seconds after which both vats will have the same amount of liquid.
For the first vat:
- Initial amount: 141414 gallons
- Filling rate: 202020 gallons per second
The amount in the first vat after \( t \) seconds can be represented as: \[ A_1 = 141414 + 202020t \]
For the second vat:
- Initial amount: 353535 gallons
- Filling rate: 161616 gallons per second
The amount in the second vat after \( t \) seconds can be represented as: \[ A_2 = 353535 + 161616t \]
We want to find the time \( t \) when both vats have the same amount of liquid: \[ A_1 = A_2 \]
Setting the equations equal to each other: \[ 141414 + 202020t = 353535 + 161616t \]
Now, we will isolate \( t \) by first rearranging the equation: \[ 202020t - 161616t = 353535 - 141414 \] \[ 40304t = 212121 \]
Now, we will solve for \( t \): \[ t = \frac{212121}{40304} \]
Calculating the division: \[ t \approx 5.26 \]
To gain a more precise answer: Performing the division using a calculator: \[ t \approx 5.26 \]
Thus, the time after which both vats will have the same amount of liquid is approximately \( 5.26 \) seconds.