Understanding Word Problems (how many of each coin?)

[Starr1418]

I'm having trouble with changing word problems into equations. Perhaps you can help me. Here is the question I am stuck on. :?

Joan has several nickels and quarters in her purse, totaling $5.15. There are 5 fewer nickels than there are quarters. How many of each coin are there?

 

[Denis]

Re: Understanding Word Problems

I'm having trouble with changing word problems into equations. Perhaps you can help me. Here is the question I am stuck on. :?

Joan has several nickels and quarters in her purse, totaling $5.15. There are 5 fewer nickels than there are quarters. How many of each coin are there?

let n = nickels ; then quarters = n + 5 : ok?

value of nickels = .05n : ok?
value of quarters = .25(n + 5) : ok?

So: .05n + .25(n + 5) = 5.15 : solve for n; simple nuff?

 

[Starr1418]

Yes i understand now. Thank you very much!