Number of automobiles on the truck = 7
Weight of each automobile = 3500 pounds
Hence, weight of 7 automobiles is = [tex]3500\times7=24500[/tex]
As given, the bridge that can support a maximum weight of = 45000 pounds
So, the truck should weigh = [tex]45000-24500=20500[/tex] pounds
Hence, the truck itself can weigh 20,500 pounds in order to cross the bridge safely.