Rate x Time = Job Problem (proofreaders sharing task)

[Messagehelp]

One person proofreads a copy for a small newspaper in 4 hours. If a second proofreader is also employed, the job can be done in 2 and a half hours. How long does it take for the second proofreader to get the job done alone?

I thought I got it, but apparently, I don't. Help me?

 

[stapel]

I thought I got it, but apparently, I don't. Help me?

Please reply with a clear listing of what you've tried and the solution you got, so that we can try to help you find any errors. Thank you!

Eliz.

 

[Loren]

Re: Rate x Time = Job Problem

Hint --- Set up your equation thinking in terms of what can be accomplished in 1 unit of time (1 hour) by each of the participants and by them together.

 

[skeeter]

Re: Rate x Time = Job Problem

person 1 works at a rate of (1 copy)/(4 hrs)

person 2 works at a rate of (1 copy)/(t hrs) ... {t is the unknown time you want.}

rate working together ... (1/4 + 1/t)

(rate together) x (time together) = 1 job done