2018 AMC 12A Problem 2

Attempt Problem 2 of the 2018 AMC 12A below, then check your answer against the professionally curated solution from LIVE by Po-Shen Loh. You can also try the full timed exam, view all 2018 AMC 12A solutions, or check the answer key.

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2.

While exploring a cave, Carl comes across a collection of 55-pound rocks worth $1414 each, 44-pound rocks worth $1111 each, and 11-pound rocks worth $22 each. There are at least 2020 of each size. He can carry at most 1818 pounds. What is the maximum value, in dollars, of the rocks he can carry out of the cave?

4848

4949

5050

5151

5252

Answer: C
Concepts:optimizationcasework
Difficulty rating: 1020
Solution:

The rocks are worth $2.80,2.80, $2.75,2.75, and $22 per pound, respectively. For each possible number of 55-pound rocks, use as many 44-pound rocks as fit and fill any leftover capacity with 11-pound rocks. Taking 0,1,2,0,1,2, or 33 of the 55-pound rocks gives maximum values $48,48, $49,49, $50,50, and $48,48, respectively.

Thus two 55-pound and two 44-pound rocks use all 1818 pounds, and the maximum value is $50.50. Thus, the correct answer is C.

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