Let's let N = the total number of cookies shared.
We wish to divide a number N into 3 parts in the ratio of a:b:c, so the
parts are given by these formulas:
×N, ×N, and ×N
We wish to divide N cookies into 3 parts in the ratio of 4:5:1
×N = ×N = ×N = Ali's share
×N = ×N = ×N = James' share
×N = ×N = Jason's share
Now we notice the words:
>>...Ali received 45 cookies more than Jason...<<
To get the equation we use this:
= + 45
×N = ×N + 45
Clear of fractions by multiplying all three terms by 10
10××N = 10××N + 10×45
4N = N + 450
3N = 450
N = 150 cookies shared
That's the answer. To check it:
×150 = ×150 = ×150 = 60 = Ali's share
×150 = ×150 = ×150 = 75 = James' share
×150 = ×150 = 15 = Jason's share
The sum is 60 + 75 + 15 = 150 That part checks.
Ali received 60 cookies and Jason received 15 cookies, and indeed,
60 is 45 more than 15.
So the answer 150 is correct.
Edwin