Problem: If an item is sold for x dollars, there is a loss of 15% based on the cost. If, however, the same item is sold for y dollars, there is a profit of 15% based on the cost. The ratio y:x is:
Answer Choices:
A. 23:17
B. 17y:23
C. 23x:17
D. dependent upon the cost
E. none of these.
Solution:
Let C represent the cost (in dollars). Then x=C−.15C=.85C, and y=C+.15C= 1.15 C . Therefore, y:x=(1.15C):(.85C)=23:17.