Question

the relationship between the weight of an object on mars and its weight on earth is proportional. an object that weighs 50 pounds on earth would weigh 20 pounds on mars. write an equation to show the relationship between x, an objects weight on earth, and y, its weight on mars.

Explanation:

Step1: Identify proportional relationship

Since weight on Mars (\(y\)) and Earth (\(x\)) are proportional, \(y = kx\), where \(k\) is the constant of proportionality.

Step2: Calculate constant \(k\)

Given \(x = 50\) (Earth weight) and \(y = 20\) (Mars weight), substitute into \(y = kx\): \(20 = k \times 50\). Solve for \(k\): \(k=\frac{20}{50}=0.4\).

Step3: Write the equation

Substitute \(k = 0.4\) into \(y = kx\), so \(y = 0.4x\).

Answer:

\(y = 0.4x\)