Question

As of 1/1/2003, Little Billy had a marble collection consisting of 60 marbles. On Little Billy's best buddy Bobby's birthday on 4/4/2003, Little Billy gave best buddy Bobby 15% of his marbles. Some time between Bobby's birthday and 12/31/2003, Little Billy lost 6 marbles. If Little Billy acquired no more marbles, as of 1/1/2004, how many marbles does Little Billy have in his collection?

Answer 1

45 marbles

Explanation:

Little Billy's marbles on 1/1/2003: 60 marbles

On Billy's best friend's birthday on 4/4/2003 Billy gave 15% to his best friend: 15% of 60 = 15/100 x 60 = 9 marbles

Marbles Billy lost: 6 marbles

Total marbles Billy had at the beginning of the year: 60 marbles

Marbles Billy lost or gave up: 6 + 9 = 15 marbles

Total marbles Billy has on 1/1/2004: 60-15 = 45 marbles.

Therefore, Billy had 45 marbles in his collection on 1/1/2004.

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