OEThis question asks for a specific number and the answer choices are integers in order from least to greatest, which means that Plug In the Answers might be a good approach. However, that would mean constructing a rather involved equation. A better approach might be to construct a short 3 column table (see below), with headings for Days, (Amount to) Add, and Gallons (in the jug).
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The question states that the 20-gallon jug is 20% full to start. So enter “0” in the Days column and 20% × 20 = 4 in the Gallons column.
The question states that every 3 Days, an amount of water equal to 50% of the amount already in the jug is added to the jug. So in the next line enter “3” in the Days column, 50% × 4 = 2 in the Add column, and 4 + 2 = 6 in the Gallons column. In the next line, enter “6” in the Days column, 50% × 6 = 3 in the Add column, and 6 + 3 = 9 in the Gallons column. The question asks how many Days until the jug is at least 85% full. 85% × 20 = 17, so continue filling in the table until the number of gallons in the jug is greater than or equal to 17. The correct answer is (C). Note that (A) is a trap answer that represents the number of times (4) water needs to be added to the jug so the total gallons in the jug is greater than or equal to 17.