Question

One brand of suntan lotion comes in a small size with x ounces of lotion and a regular size with y ounces of lotion. Two small bottles plus one regular bottle contain 15 ounces oflotion while one small bottle and two regular bottles contain 19.5 ounces of lotion. This relationship is shown in the system of equations below.

Answer 1

ANSWER

3.5 ounces

EXPLANATION

We have to solve the system for x, the number of ounces of lotion in the small bottle. To do so, we can use the method of elimination. First, multiply the first equation by 2,

$\begin{gathered} 2\cdot2x+2\cdot y=2\cdot15 \\ 4x+2y=30 \end{gathered}$

Then, subtract the second equation from this,

Solve for x,

$3x=10.5$

Divide both sides by 3,

$\begin{gathered} \frac{3x}{3}=\frac{10.5}{3} \\ x=3.5 \end{gathered}$

Hence, the small bottle of lotion has 3.5 ounces