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 object’s weight on earth, and y, its weight on mars.

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the proportionality constant

Given that when \( x = 50 \) (weight on Earth), \( y = 20 \) (weight on Mars). Since the relationship is proportional, \( y=kx \), where \( k \) is the constant of proportionality. Substitute \( x = 50 \) and \( y = 20 \) into the equation: \( 20=k\times50 \). Solve for \( k \): \( k=\frac{20}{50}=0.4 \).

Step2: Write the equation

Using the proportionality constant \( k = 0.4 \), the equation relating \( x \) (weight on Earth) and \( y \) (weight on Mars) is \( y = 0.4x \).

Answer:

\( y = 0.4x \)