Question

Three numbers add up to 210. The second number is 10 more than the first and the third number is 3 times the first. Find the numbers by modelling the problem using an algebraic equation.

Answer 1

I. First number, a = 40.

II. Second number, b = 50.

III. Third number, c = 120.

Explanation:

Let the three numbers be a, b and c respectively.

Given the following data;

Translating the word problem into an algebraic equation, we have;

a + b + c = 210

b = a + 10

c = 3a

Substituting the value of b and c into the equation, we have;

a + a + 10 + 3a = 210

5a + 10 = 210

5a = 210 - 10

5a = 200

a = 200/5

a = 40

To find the value of b;

b = a + 10

b = 40 + 10

b = 50

To find c

c = 3a

c = 3*40

c = 120