Question

The product of 32 and an unknown number subtracted from 435 is 179 what is the value of the unknown number

Answer 1

Hello from MrBillDoesMath!

Answer: Case 1: approximately 429.4, Case 2: 8

Discussion:

Let the unknown be "x". The problem statement could mean either

32 * (435 -x) = 179 (#1)

or

435 - 32*x = 179 (#2)

It's unclear which one is wanted so we solve both of them.

----------------------------------------------#1

But for case #1

32 * (435 -x) = 179

32 * 435 - 32x = 179 or

13920 - 32x = 179

Add 32x to both sides

13920 = 179 + 32x

Subtract 179 from both sides:

13920 - 179 = 32x

Divide both side by x to get

x = (13920 -179)/32 = 13741/32 which is approximately 429.4

For case #2

----------------------------------------------#2

435 - 32x = 179. Add 32 x to each side

435 -32x + 32x = 179 + 32x. Subtract 170 from each side

435 -179 = 32x or

32x = 256 or x = 8

Regards, MrB