A supply sergeant initially distributes rounds of specialized training ammunition among three firing squads—Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie—in a ratio of , respectively. During the drill, Squad Bravo requests and is issued exactly additional rounds.
To maintain the exact original distribution ratio among the three squads, the sergeant must also issue additional rounds to Alpha and Charlie. How many total additional rounds must be issued to Squads Alpha and Charlie combined to perfectly restore the original ratio?
Answer: 420 rounds
Answer
420
By determining that Bravo's 180 additional rounds correspond to its 3 parts in the ratio, we can establish that the proportional increase per part is 60 rounds (180 ÷ 3). Since Alpha and Charlie make up 7 parts combined (2 + 5), they require an additional 7 × 60 = 420 rounds to maintain the ratio.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Dividing quantities based on a given ratio and recalculating proportional parts after a specific adjustment.
Alternative Method
Instead of calculating the initial and final totals for each squad, analyze the proportional change directly. Squad Bravo's allocation increases by 180 rounds. Since Bravo represents 3 parts of the ratio, the increase is 180 ÷ 3 = 60 rounds per ratio part. Squads Alpha and Charlie account for 2 + 5 = 7 ratio parts combined. Therefore, their combined additional requirement is simply 7 parts × 60 rounds/part = 420 rounds.
Estimated Time:2m 30s