Understanding Average Weight: A Fun Look at Canines

When you're studying for something like the Border Patrol exam, sometimes math can feel like a big mountain to climb. But don’t sweat it! Let’s break it down in a way that clicks. So, you’ve got a question about the total weight of two heavier canines, given that one weighs 110 lbs and the average weight is 130 lbs. You know what? It’s actually quite simple once you know the steps.

First off, when calculating averages, we use this nifty little formula:

[ \text{Average} = \frac{\text{Total Weight}}{\text{Number of Items}} ]

In our case, the average weight of three canines is 130 lbs. How do we find the total weight? Easy! We just multiply that average by the number of canines:

[ \text{Total Weight} = 130 \times 3 = 390 \text{ lbs} ]

Now, hold on. We know one of these canines is 110 lbs. So, if we want the total weight of the two heavier canines, we simply need to subtract the weight of the lighter canine from the total weight. Here’s how it looks:

[ \text{Weight of the two heavier canines} = 390 - 110 = 280 \text{ lbs} ]

But wait! That’s the total weight of those two canines. Let’s say you wanted to know their average weight. Now we’ve got 280 lbs divided by 2, which brings us to 140 lbs for the average of those two.

Now, why does this matter for someone gearing up for the Border Patrol exam? Well, understanding how to manipulate these average calculations can help in many areas on the test, especially when it comes to interpreting data or solving real-world problems.

Think of it this way. Just as these canines are valuable members of their teams, your math skills are essential for navigating scenarios that may come your way in border patrol work. Whether it’s estimating weights or figuring out other averages, having solid math skills can make you stand out.

But here’s a fun thought! Just how many types of canines are out there? From amazing breeds adapted for work to our beloved household pets, understanding their characteristics (including weight!) can give us insight into their care and training needs. Did you know some breeds, like Great Danes, can tip the scales at 175 lbs or more? That’s a whole lot of dog!

To wrap it all up, whenever you’re faced with questions like these, just remember: break ‘em down, work the math step-by-step, and don’t let anxiety get the better of you. It's all about practice and confidence, and before you know it, you’ll be tackling the Border Patrol exam with ease, one question at a time. Happy studying!