The alloy consists of 19 parts aluminum and 2 parts magnesium (by weight).
The alloy consists of 19 parts aluminum and 2 parts magnesium (by weight). What is the weight of the alloy if it contains 34 kg less than aluminum?
To solve this problem, we introduce the variable “X”, which will denote the mass of aluminum in the alloy. Then, the mass of magnesium in the alloy will be equal to X – 34 kg. According to the data of the problem, we will compose the proportion: X refers to X – 34 since 19 refers to 2. As a result, we obtain the equation X / (X – 34) = 19/2. Solving this equation, we get 2X = 19X – 646 or 17X = 646. Hence, X is 38 kg (the mass of aluminum in the alloy). Then, the mass of magnesium in the alloy will be 38 – 34 = 4 kg. Therefore, the mass of the entire alloy is equal to the sum of 38 kg and 4 kg = 42 kg.
Answer: the mass of the alloy is 42 kg.