word problem

Question

Can you please help me solve? annual crashes fell 43.6% to 2591 after cameras were installed. how many crashes occurred annually before cameras were installed? I need to translate to an equation, solve, and check.

Answer 1

Angela,

2591 crashes is a percentage of something.  So, set it up proportionally:

If the number of crashes dropped 43.6%, that means 100%-43.6% is what 2591 crashes is a percentage of.

2591/x = 56.4/100

56.4x = 259100

x = 259100/56.4

x ≈ 4594  crashes

 

To check, multiply 4594 times .436:

4594*.436 ≈ 2003

4594 - 2003 = 2591