Zabato is thinking of a number. Three times the sum of the number and ten is the same as eight times the number. What is Zabato's number?

Question

Zabato is thinking of a number.  Three times the sum of the number and ten is the same as eight times the number.  What is Zabato's number?

Answer 1

Lucy, Let x= the unknown number.  Three times the sum of a number and 10 is the same as eight times the number which translates to:  3(x + 10)=8(x); Solve for x.  3x + 30= 8x;  Subtract 3x from both sides of the equation.  30=5x;  Now divide both sides of the equation by 5.  x= 6.  So 6 is Zabato's number.  Check:  3(6+10)=8 x 6;  16 x 3= 8 x 6;  48=48

Answer 2

Hi Lucy,

 

Let's translate the English into math. . .

 

Let the number = X

 

Now, 3 times the sum of the number and 10--> 3(X + 10)

 

equals 8 times the number--> 8X

 

3(X + 10) = 8X

 

3X + 30 = 8x

 

30 = 5X

 

X = 6

 

Plug 6 back into the question to make sure it works.

 

Have fun.

 

Dan