Word problem solver

Question

The processor speed of a personal computer is 3.2 gigahert. This is three fourths of the processor speed of a newer model personal computer. Find the processor speed of the newer personal computer.

Answer 1

Note:  hertz = cycles per second;    Ghz is gigahertz =  billions of cycles per second

 

Translating the words into math expressions:

     " 3.2 gigahertz. This is three fourths of the processor speed of a newer model "     means

           3.2 GHz        =          (3/4)        *           N            (note: "of" usually means multiply)    

              3.2*(4/3)   = N        (N is the newer processor speed; multiply both sides by 4/3)  

              4.67 GHz  = N 

 

The key to word problems is the translation; make a very literal translation.

Answer 2

Hi Claudia,

You need to set up a quick equation to solve this problem.

It should be: 0.75x=3.2

Solve for x and you'll have the processor speed of the newer computer.