The population of Milton High is 960 students. The population of Townsend High is 1680 students.

Question

The population of Milton is increasing at a rate of 20 students per year, while the population of Townsend High has decreased by 25 students per year. In about how many years will the population of the two schools be the same?

Answer 1

ANSWER:

16 years

EXPLANATION:

Using x as number of years set the populations as well as increase and decrease equal to each other

960+20x=1680-25x

Then solve for x

1680-960=-25x-20x

720=-45x

x=16

Answer 2

y=# of years until the populations will be the same

(960+20y)=(1680-25y)

25y+20y=1680-960

45y=720

y=720/45

y=16 years the populations will be the same