Question

While Michelle sat observing birds at a bird feeder, one-fourth of the birds flew away when they were startled by a noise. Five birds left the feeder to go to another station a few feet away. Four birds remained at the feeder. How many birds were at the feeder initially?

Answer 1

12 birds in total

Explanation:

x = total birds

x - 1/4x - 5 = 4

4/4x - 1/4x - 5 = 4

3/4x - 5 = 4

3/4x = 4 + 5

3/4x = 9

x = 9 * 4/3

x = 36/3

x = 12 <=====

lets check it..

3/4(12) = 9

36/4 = 9

9 = 9 (correct)...so it checks out