SOLUTION: I need help with a word problem, I have a way to find the solution but it is not the way we were instructed.Below, is a copy of the word problem. You plant a 14 inch hemlock tree

Question 565302: I need help with a word problem, I have a way to find the solution but it is not the way we were instructed.Below, is a copy of the word problem.
You plant a 14 inch hemlock tree that grows at a rate of 4 inches per year.You also plant a 8 inch spruce that grows at a rate of 6 inches per year.In how many years will both trees be the same height, and how tall will they be.
I am not requesting the answer, I just need a linear system to solve.
The way I found how to solve but isn't the way instructed is:
14+4x=y
8+6x=y
I would have to do that equation over and over again to find the correct answer. My teacher would be displeased if I had not used the way instructed.I struggle with word problems and I am going to stay after school to get help.
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
You plant a 14 inch hemlock tree that grows at a rate of 4 inches per year.
You also plant a 8 inch spruce that grows at a rate of 6 inches per year.
In how many years will both trees be the same height, and how tall will they be.
:
Let x = no. of yrs for them to be equal
:
Write an expression for each tree (which is what you did)
Hemlock: 4x + 14
Spruce: 6x + 8
:
When they are equal
6x + 8 = 4x + 14
Find x
:
Then replace x with it's value to find the height of each tree, of course they should be equal.
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