Math Problem Statement

A fuel tank is initially at 1/4 capacity. After 3 litres of fuel is added, the tank is at 1/3 capacity. How many litres is the full capacity of the tank?

Solution

Let's denote the full capacity of the tank as CC litres.

Initially, the tank is at 14\frac{1}{4} of its full capacity. After adding 3 litres, the tank is at 13\frac{1}{3} of its full capacity.

The fuel already in the tank at the start is 14C\frac{1}{4} C. After adding 3 litres, the total fuel in the tank is 14C+3\frac{1}{4} C + 3. This is now equal to 13C\frac{1}{3} C.

We can now set up the equation: 14C+3=13C\frac{1}{4} C + 3 = \frac{1}{3} C

To solve for CC, subtract 14C\frac{1}{4} C from both sides: 3=13C14C3 = \frac{1}{3} C - \frac{1}{4} C

To simplify the right-hand side, find a common denominator: 13C14C=412C312C=112C\frac{1}{3} C - \frac{1}{4} C = \frac{4}{12} C - \frac{3}{12} C = \frac{1}{12} C

Now the equation becomes: 3=112C3 = \frac{1}{12} C

Multiply both sides by 12: C=36C = 36

Therefore, the full capacity of the tank is 3636 litres.

Would you like more details on any step or have any questions?

Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How would the problem change if the initial fuel level was different?
  2. What if instead of 3 litres, 5 litres were added? How would that affect the result?
  3. Can you create a general formula for solving similar problems involving fuel capacity?
  4. How does this problem illustrate the use of fractions in algebra?
  5. Could this method be used to determine other quantities in real-life scenarios?

Tip: When solving word problems, carefully translate the given conditions into mathematical equations, as this often simplifies the problem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Fractions
Linear Equations

Formulas

Fraction of total capacity: C/4 + 3 = C/3

Theorems

Linear equation solving
Common denominator method

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8