Algebraic expression

Question

Jake studies for y hours for a test. Julie studied half as long.

what is the algebraic for how long Julie studies

Answer 1

The first step is to locate and define the variables.

We are given that Jake's hours spent studying is represented by y. If our goal is to determine the algebraic equation for how long Julie studies, we also need a (different) variable representing her hours spent studying, let's say x. If this is just asking for an expression, we will not be creating an equation (with an equal sign). Therefore, let's use the information provided to write only the expression.

It states "Julie studied half as long (as Jake)". If Jake's hours are represented as the variable y, then half of y is Julie's hours spent studying. (1/2)y OR 0.5y OR y/2 ALL are equivalent expressions representing Julie's hours spent studying. The algebraic equation would be x=(1/2)y . Hope this helps!