Let’s call the number of gallons of 30% solution “x”. If we mix together 40 gallons and x gallons of solution, we’re going to come out with a total of 40 + x gallons of that 20% solution. Mathematically, this is
40(12%) + x(30%) = (40 + x)(20%)
With the percents as decimals:
40(0.12) + x(0.3) = (40 + x)(0.2)
Simplifying, we have:
4.8 + 0.3x = 8 + 0.2x
Collecting the x terms on one side and the constants on the other:
0.1x = 3.2
And multiplying both sides by 10 to find x:
x = 32
So, you’ll need 32 gallons of 30% solution to yield 40 + 32 = 72 gallons of 20% solution.
