Six times a number r plus one-third of a number s equals seventeen. Three times the number r plus one-sixth of the number s equals eight. What are the two​ numbers?

Question

I suck at math and need help

Answer 1

Hi Jesse!

Starting off, I promise you don't suck at math! These questions are always a little confusing. Let's try to break it down piece by piece.

The first part "Six times a number" means 6(r). Next, "plus one-third of a number s equals seventeen" so 6(r) + 1/3s = 17 <- this is our first equation. Then, " Three times the number r" means 3(r). Lastly, "plus one-sixth of the number s equals eight" means 3(r) + 1/6s = 8.

Our two equations side by side are:

6(r) + 1/3s = 17

3(r) = 1/6s = 8

Solve these using the system of equations method.

More on that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz6UmZLWgEw

The answer is r = 3 and s = -1.

Hope this helps! If you need any clarification let me know!