Help with mathematical statistics?

Question

Why is the following statement correct?

A 15 ounce container has a sign on it which says 25% more than a container which contains 20% less.

I definitely don't understand and if you could leave an explanation to help me it would be great.

Thanks!

Answer 1

It's difficult to compare the percentages because they have different bases.  If you actually multiply it out, 20% less than 15 ounces 3 ounces.  The smaller can is 12 ounces (which is 3 ounces less than the larger can, and this can be expressed as 20% less than the larger can).

Now, expressing the percentages in terms of the smaller can, 25% of 12 ounces is 3 ounces.  The larger can is 25% more than the smaller can.

Explained mathematically, it's because 5/4 of the smaller can is equal to 4/5 of the larger can.  5/4 is (1+.25) and 4/5 is (1-.20)

Hope that helps some.

_/

Answer 2

idk if you will understand but here goes

the original container is 100%

the 2nd is 20% less

the third is 25% more than the 2nd

you need the extra 5% because there is less, (20%of #1 is more than 20% of # 2)