How Many Watermelons Can You Get for $72?

When presented with simple yet intriguing mathematical problems, such as the one asking how many watermelons can be purchased for $72 if 10 watermelons cost $18, many might be left puzzled. But let's dive into this problem and unravel the solution step by step.

Understanding the Problem

First, let's break down the problem: if 10 watermelons cost $18, we need to find out how many watermelons we can buy for $72. To do this, we can first calculate the cost per watermelon and then use this information to determine the total number of watermelons we can purchase.

Calculating the Cost Per Watermelon

To find the cost per watermelon, we can simply divide the total cost by the number of watermelons:

Cost per watermelon Total cost / Number of watermelons

In this case, the total cost for 10 watermelons is $18. So:

Cost per watermelon $18 / 10 $1.80

Now that we know the cost per watermelon is $1.80, we can determine how many watermelons we can buy for $72:

Number of watermelons Total amount of money / Cost per watermelon

Number of watermelons $72 / $1.80 40

Therefore, you can get 40 watermelons for $72 if 10 watermelons cost $18.

Real-World Application and Strategy

While the math is straightforward, in a real-world scenario, it's always a good idea to negotiate a quantity discount. By purchasing more watermelons, you might be able to get a better deal. Here's a practical strategy:

I would try to negotiate a quantity discount and get 50 watermelons. Let's get real — it's a business decision, and pricing often becomes more favorable as you buy in bulk.

Negotiation is key in business, and being knowledgeable about exactly what you can afford (like 40 watermelons) can give you leverage in your negotiations.

Algebraic Solution

For those who prefer an algebraic approach, we can set up a proportion to solve the problem. We know that:

10/18 X/72

By cross-multiplying, we get:

18X 720

Dividing both sides by 18, we find:

X 40

Therefore, you can buy 40 watermelons with $72 if 10 watermelons cost $18.

Conclusion

Understanding how to solve mathematical problems like this can not only make you more knowledgeable but also more persuasive in business decisions. Whether you're buying watermelons, fruits, or any other goods in bulk, knowing the cost per unit is crucial.

So, the next time you encounter a similar problem or find yourself in a situation where you need to calculate costs for bulk purchases, you'll be ready to tackle it with confidence and mathematical certainty.