Abby T.
asked • 01/10/17Writing a system of solutions
A library contains 2000 books. There are 3 times as many nonfiction books as fiction books. Write and solve a system of equations to determine the number of nonfiction and fiction books.
More
1 Expert Answer
Identify what we are trying to find, which is the number of fiction and nonfiction books. If we let x = fiction books, and y = nonfiction books, then we can express the total number of books as: x + y = 2000 Based on the info in the problem, we can also express the number of nonfiction books as y = 3x. Now, we have a system of equations. This system can be solved using the Substitution Method. For instance, you can replace every instance of y in the first equation with 3x. You then will have an equation in terms of one variable, namely x. Once you solve that equation for x, it will be easy to determine the value for y. Can you proceed from here, Abby?
Andrew M.
Michael A. is correct; however,
the system of equations is:
N + F = 2000
N = 3F
When you combine the above system
using substitution you get
3F + F = 2000
note: You can choose any variable you wish
to represent the unknowns. I prefer to choose
variables that I won't get confused such as
N = # nonfiction books
F = # fiction books
Report
01/11/17
Michael A.
tutor
Andrew M. is correct. I originally began working the problem using x and y for the types of books, but changed it to a problem involving one variable. I overlooked the directions instructing you to use a system of equations. Sorry, that is an oversight on my part. Thank you, Andrew.
Report
01/11/17
Still looking for help? Get the right answer, fast.
Ask a question for free
Get a free answer to a quick problem.
Most questions answered within 4 hours.
OR
Find an Online Tutor Now
Choose an expert and meet online. No packages or subscriptions, pay only for the time you need.
Michael A.
01/11/17