Margo has 15 coins in nickels and quarters. She has 3 more quarters than nickels. How many of each coin does she have?

Answer 1

We have to start by creating an equation so lets set variables

total coins: C = 15 (given to us in the statement)

nickels (n)

quarters (q)= n+3 (she has 3 more quarters than nickels)

so knowing that:

C= n+q

C= n+ (n+3)

15=2n+3 (subtract 3)

2n=12

n=6 so you have 6 nickels

q=n+3= 6+3= 9 so you have 9 quarters.