1. **State the problem:** Two kittens together weigh 3 1/4 pounds. We want to find possible individual weights for each kitten. 2. **Convert mixed number to improper fraction:** 3 1/4 pounds = $$\frac{13}{4}$$ pounds. 3. **Set variables:** Let the weights be $x$ and $y$ pounds. 4. **Write the equation:** $$x + y = \frac{13}{4}$$ 5. **Possible weights:** Since the sum is fixed, any pair $(x, y)$ such that $x + y = \frac{13}{4}$ and $x, y > 0$ is possible. 6. **Example:** If $x = 2$ pounds, then $$y = \frac{13}{4} - 2 = \frac{13}{4} - \frac{8}{4} = \frac{5}{4} = 1.25$$ pounds. 7. **Answer:** The kittens could weigh 2 pounds and 1.25 pounds, or any other positive pair summing to 3.25 pounds. --- 8. **Next problem:** How many more pounds did the heaviest kitten weigh than the lightest? 9. **Difference formula:** $$\text{Difference} = \text{Heaviest} - \text{Lightest}$$ 10. **Using example weights:** $$2 - 1.25 = 0.75$$ pounds. 11. **Answer:** The heaviest kitten weighs 0.75 pounds more than the lightest kitten. **Final answers:** - Possible weights: any positive $x, y$ with $x + y = \frac{13}{4}$. - Difference between heaviest and lightest: example 0.75 pounds.