A construction elevator can carry at most 2,320 pounds. if the elevator operator weighs 195 pounds and each palette of roofing material weighs 425 pounds, what is the maximum number of palettes of roofing material that the elevator can carry in one trip?

Lets set up an equation,

195 + 425x = 2320

195 - 195 + 425x = 2320 - 195 < - Subtract 195 from each side of the equal sign.

425x = 2125 < - Divide 425 on both sides

425/425x = 2125/425

x = 5

They would be able to fit 5 palettes.

Lets check this by substituting the variable 5 into the equation.

195 + 425 (5) = 2320

195 + 2125 = 2320

2320 = 2320

This is correct.