Money Jar Problem

lisaz0224

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Oct 5, 2008
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15
Okay, here is another problem from my math homework. I figured out the answer to this in the end, but I still don't understand how to do it algebraically, which is what is being asked. Basically, please explain all of the steps in algebraic form.

A jar containing only nickels and dimes contains a total of 60 coins. The value of all the coins in the jar is $4.45. Find the number of nickels and dimes that are in the jar.

Thank you! :)
 
lisaz0224 said:
Okay, here is another problem from my math homework. I figured out the answer to this in the end, but I still don't understand how to do it algebraically, which is what is being asked. Basically, please explain all of the steps in algebraic form.

A jar containing only nickels and dimes contains a total of 60 coins. The value of all the coins in the jar is $4.45. Find the number of nickels and dimes that are in the jar.

Thank you! :)
Like the other problem - first figure out what the problem asking for..

Find the number of nickels and dimes...


So let us name our variables

Number of nickels = n .................................................(1)

One information given:

A jar containing only nickels and dimes contains a total of 60 coins...

# of dimes = 60 - n ....................................................(2)

What other information do you have - write it up as an equation and solve it.

I'll do a similar problem for you to follow.

A jar containing only quarters and dimes contains a total of 6 coins. The value of all the coins in the jar is $1.20. Find the number of quarters and dimes that are in the jar.

Let

the # of quarters = Q

the # of dimes = 6 - Q

The value of all the coins in the jar is $1.20

From above we get

0.25 * Q + 0.10 * (6 - Q) = 1.20

0.25 * Q + 0.60 - 0.10 * Q = 1.20

0.15 * Q + 0.60 = 1.20

0.15 * Q = 1.20 - 0.60

0.15 * Q = 0.60

Q = 0.60/0.15 = 4

So

# of Quarters = 4

# of Dimes = 6 - 4 = 2

Please show us your work, indicating exactly where you are stuck - so that we know where to begin to help you.
 
lisaz0224 said:
I still don't understand how to do it algebraically....
I'm assuming your class has covered variables and how to "translate" from English into math. To learn how to do this particular type of exercise, try this list of lessons.

Have fun! :D

Eliz.
 
Oh! Thanks, that helps a lot. Actually, I've learned this in class, I just didn't know to apply it like that.
 
lisaz0224 said:
... I've learned this ... didn't know to apply it ...


Hello Lisa Z:

Try doing more homework than is assigned.

Cheers,

~ Mark :)

 
mmm4444bot said:
Try doing more homework than is assigned.
That's good advice, by the way. It totally saved my butt in chemistry.... :wink:

Eliz.
 


It earned me a 3.98 GPA to go with my first degree; my sleeping habits never quite returned to normal.

~ Mark 8-)

 
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