Carl has 3 times as many stamps as Tim. Together they have 2400 stamps. How many stamps does tim have

Question

This math word problem is mostly related to algebra, Im struggling on trying to understand the whole concept step by step

Answer 1

Hello, Alexys,

   You can also solve it by using one variable, such as "x." 

 

Steps:

1)  Underline key words and numbers in the problem.

 

2)  Let  Tim's amount=x       Then Carl's amount=3x                   Total =2,400

 

Tim's amount +  Carl's amount = Total

 

    Use substitution:    1x   +  3x = 2,400   (Collect like terms.)

 

3)  Now, solve for  "x," which is Tim's amount.    Carl's is just three times what "x" is.

 

I will allow you to finish your problem.    Susan C.

 

 

 

Answer 2

Carl has 3 times as many stamps as Tim. Together they have 2400 stamps. How many stamps does Tim have?

 

Solution:

 

let the number of stamps carl has = x

let the number of stamps Tim has = y

From the problem statement: Carl has 3 times as many stamps as Tim.

 

then x = 3y , and Together they have 2400 stamps

then x + y= 2400 substitute for x in the 2nd equation

 

3y+y=2400, 4y=2400, y=600, x=3y=3x600=1800

 

Tim has 600 stamps and carl has 1800 stamps  

 

check: x + y=2400. 1800+600=2400 , checks