Problem

Squirrels, dogs, and cats:

A squirrel and a dog weigh the same as two cats. A dog weighs as much as two squirrels and a cat. Now how many squirrels will balance the dog?

Find a solution to the problem anyway you can, then find an algebraic solution. Remember that if one quantity equals another, they can replace each other.

Answer

For my answer, I used an algebraic expression right off the bat; I used no other method. The answer I received was that 5 squirrels balance the weight of one dog.

Weighs as much as; Weighs the same as = Equals (=)

I drew these equations from the problem:

Equation #1: S + D = 2C

&

Equation #2: D = 2S + C

Then I switched the Dog on equation 2 (the modified

equation is labeled equation 3), giving me the following:

Equation #1: S + D = 2C

&

Equation #3: 2S + C = D

With the information above, I was able to insert

the information from equation 3, into the D in

equation 1 making the equation:

S + 2S + C = 2C

After adding and subtracting what is necessary,

I have the equation:

3S = C

I know from equation 3, that:

2S + C = D

I then replaced the C in equation 3 with the 3S (we

know 3S = C from above), making the equation:

2S + 3S = D

When I add the squirrels together, I get the answer:

5S = D