To find the total amount of salsa in the original container, let's analyze the problem step by step:
1. Understand the Variables:
- Malia has a total of 5 bowls.
- Each bowl contains 8.5 ounces of salsa.
- We need to find the total amount of salsa [tex]\( x \)[/tex] in the original container.
2. Set Up the Equation:
- Since there are 5 bowls and each contains 8.5 ounces, the total amount of salsa can be calculated by multiplying the number of bowls by the amount of salsa per bowl.
- The equation for this would be:
[tex]\[
5 \times 8.5 = x
\][/tex]
Here, [tex]\( x \)[/tex] represents the total amount of salsa in the original container.
3. Solve the Equation:
- Multiply 5 by 8.5:
[tex]\[
5 \times 8.5 = 42.5
\][/tex]
- So, [tex]\( x = 42.5 \)[/tex]
4. Verify the Correct Answer:
- Substitute [tex]\( x = 42.5 \)[/tex] back into the equation to ensure it balances:
[tex]\[
\frac{42.5}{5} = 8.5
\][/tex]
- This confirms that the value [tex]\( x = 42.5 \)[/tex] is correct.
5. Conclusion:
- The total amount of salsa in the original container is 42.5 ounces.
Therefore, the correct equation and value of [tex]\( x \)[/tex] is:
[tex]\[
5x = 8.5 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = 42.5 \text{ ounces}
\][/tex]
