Math Help

So I should do 40 x 4.95? Because 40/4.95 is 8.080.

 

No? 8.080 is correct. That's how many bushels per hour they pick together. That's not what you're solving for, though; you want the time component of Paul's individual rate such that, when combined with Daniel's, 8.080 will be your total rate.

 

I'll have to look at this later. My brain's tired.

 

Like I said, understanding what it is you're being asked to solve for is arguably the hardest part of these problems! You're just trying to solve for the wrong x. That's why the table helps!
Good luck~.

 

This problem combines algebra with basic physics, you might be stuck because the basic physics part eludes you.
So here' s the physics part explained : speed equals distance over time.

If that' s not big enough a clue for you :

Spoiler

Working alone, Ryan can dig a 10 ft. by 10 ft. hole in five hours
Ryan' speed (Rs) equals distance (d) over time (t)
Rs = d/5

Castel can dig the same hole in six hours
Castel' speed (Cs) equals distance (d) over time (t)
Cs = d/6

Now what are we supposed to do with that pesky d ? 10x10 ft doesn' t sound like an exploitable number. The thing is, as long as d is given the same value in both cases your logic will be sound. Let' s just switch it with 1 then :
Rs = 1/5
Cs = 1/6

If you want to know how long it would take those two to dig a hole together you end up with :
(Rs+Cs) = 1/t

Which leaves the pure algebra part to squash :

Spoiler

t = 1/(Rs+Cs) = 1/(1/5+1/6) = 1/(6/30+5/30) = 1/(11/30) = 30/11 = 2.727272 hours

 

I appreciate the help, @Stardust, @Patman! I don't need any more, though, as it's done and over with. I have an orientation on March 19.

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