College Algebra Word Problem

Question

Linh has obtained scores of 88, 73, and 75 on her midterm algebra exams. If the final exam counts twice as much as a midterm, what score must she make on her final exam to get an average score of 80? (Assume that the maximum possible score on each test is 100.)

Answer 1

Hello, thank you for taking the time to post your question!

The key on this type of question is to use the information given in order to set up an algebraic expression.

On this one we have

(88 + 73 + 75 + 2x) / 5 = 80   where “x” represents the score on the final exam

Solving that algebraically for the value of “x” yields

88 + 73 + 75 + 2x = 400

2x = 164

x = 82

meaning that she must score 82 on her final exam in order to get an average score of 80

I hope that helps you get moving in a better direction on this type of question! Feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions beyond that :)

Answer 2

Linh has achieved the following scores so far: 88, 73, 75.

Let x be the final exam grade. Remember, it counts twice.

The average she needs to attain is 80. Set the equation up as follows: (88+73+75+X+x)/5=80; because there are effectively five grades that factor into the average.

Solve for x:

(88+73+75+2x)/5=80

(236+2x)=80*5=400

2x=400-236

2x=164

x=82. She needs to get an 82 on this last exam to get an average score of 80.