02Jwordprobs

= Solving Word Problems = toc

Many problems can be solved by converting into alebra.
 * Read the problem carefully
 * identify the unknown quantity we need to find.
 * allocate a pronumeral for the unknown quantity {Use the phrase: Let d = ... }
 * identify the other information provided about that quantity
 * write an algebraic equation in terms of the pronumeral using the information provided
 * solve the equation for the pronumeral
 * express the answer in terms of the original problem (in words, with units, etc)

** Example 1 **
Jason has saved $19,000 and wishes to go on a holiday. His initial travel expenses are $2,800 and his daily expenses while on holiday are $350 per day. How long can he spend on the holiday?

__**Solution:**__

The quantity we need to find is the number of days Jason can spend on his holiday

Let **d** = number of days

Total cost of holiday = 2800 + 350 × d Money available = 19000

Equation : 350d + 2800 = 19000

Solve: 350d + 2800 = 19000 350d = 16200 d = 46.29

Answer: Jason can spend 46 days on his holiday.

** Example 2 **
If 11 is added to two times a certain number and the result is multiplied by 12, the answer is 108. Determine the orginal number.

__**Solution:**__

The quantity we need to find is the original number

Let n = the original number

Things done to the number: (11 + 2n) × 12 Result: 108

Equation: 12(2n + 11) = 108

Solve: 12(2n + 11) = 108 2n + 11 = 9 2n = –2 n = –1

Answer: The original number was –1

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