When two teas are mixed in the ratio $3 : 2$, the blend costs ₹176 per kg. When they are mixed in the ratio $2 : 3$, the blend costs ₹184 per kg. What is the price per kg of the cheaper tea?

Explanation

1. 01

   Let the prices be $a$ (cheaper) and $b$. Then $3a + 2b = 5 \times 176 = 880$ and $2a + 3b = 5 \times 184 = 920$.

2. 02

   Adding: $5a + 5b = 1800$, so $a + b = 360$.

3. 03

   Subtracting: $a - b = -40$.

4. 04

   So $a = 160$ and $b = 200$; the cheaper tea costs ₹160 per kg.