Weight of animals
Solution
In this puzzle, we are given the weights of three animals (cat, mouse, and dog) in pairs, and we need to find their individual weights as well as the total weight.
By setting up a system of linear equations from the given relationships and solving them, we can determine exactly how much each animal weighs and add them to discover the total.
In the following solution, we will go step by step with simple algebra to reach the answer of 27 kg for all animals together.
Let :
C : Cat weight
M : Mouse weight
D : Dog weight
Now, using pictures above we have :
C + M = 10 (1)
D + M = 20 (2)
D + C = 24 (3)
(2) – (1) :
D + M – C – M = 20 – 10
D – C = 10 (4)
(3) + (4) :
D + C + D – C = 24 + 10
2D = 34
D = 17 (5)
(1) + (5) :
C + M + D = 27
The weight of all animals is 27 kg
Using simple algebra and a system of linear equations, we found each animal’s weight and calculated the total as 27 kg.
This problem is a great example of how seemingly simple pairwise information can be combined to find a hidden total.
For more similar puzzles and algebraic reasoning, explore our Solved Exercises section.
Related Topics: Solved Problems
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