10. A 96-mile trip requires 6 gallons of gasoline. At this rate, what is the least number of gallons required for a 160-mile trip?
Answer: B
10 gallons of gasoline are required for a 160-mile trip.
To determine the amount of gasoline needed for a 160-mile trip, we first find the rate of gasoline consumption per mile based on the given information. The trip of 96 miles uses 6 gallons, which translates to a rate of 0.0625 gallons per mile. Multiplying this rate by 160 miles results in the need for 10 gallons of gasoline.
A) 8
This option is incorrect because 8 gallons would imply a much lower consumption rate than is established by the initial trip. Given the rate calculated from the 96-mile trip, 8 gallons would only suffice for approximately 128 miles, which is insufficient for the 160-mile distance.
B) 10
This option is correct as it accurately reflects the amount of gasoline needed for the 160-mile trip. The calculation shows that at a rate of 0.0625 gallons per mile, the total gasoline needed for 160 miles is indeed 10 gallons.
C) 12
Choosing 12 gallons is incorrect since it exceeds the calculated requirement for the trip. Based on the established rate, 12 gallons would cover approximately 192 miles, which is unnecessary for the 160-mile journey.
D) 15
This option is also incorrect as 15 gallons is significantly more than what is needed for the trip. At the established rate, 15 gallons would enable travel for about 240 miles, well beyond the required distance of 160 miles.
E) 16
This option is incorrect since 16 gallons would provide an excessive amount of fuel for the trip. It would allow for approximately 256 miles of travel, which exceeds the necessary distance.
Conclusion
The calculation confirms that 10 gallons is the precise amount needed for a 160-mile trip, making option B the definitive correct choice. All other options either underestimate or overestimate the fuel requirement based on the established consumption rate, which is critical for accurate planning in travel scenarios.