1. **Problem 32:** Solve the equation $4.5n = 8640$ to find the number of taste buds $n$ a nontaster may have. 2. **Formula and rules:** To solve for $n$, divide both sides of the equation by 4.5: $$n = \frac{8640}{4.5}$$ 3. **Intermediate work:** Calculate the division: $$n = 1920$$ 4. **Explanation:** Since a supertaster has 4.5 times as many taste buds as a nontaster, dividing the supertaster's taste buds by 4.5 gives the nontaster's number. **Final answer:** A nontaster may have $1920$ taste buds.