SOLUTION: A group of students decide to buy a Christmas gift for their math teacher. They agree to share the $32 cost equally. Unfortunately,3 students must back out at the last minute, thus

Question 118945: A group of students decide to buy a Christmas gift for their math teacher. They agree to share the $32 cost equally. Unfortunately,3 students must back out at the last minute, thus increasing each person's share by $2.40. How many students contributed to the gift ? Write the equation and solve.
I wrote 32/x - 32/x-3 =2.40 but I'm not sure, can someone please explain this in detail to me ? Thanks :)
Answer by Fombitz(32388) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Your line of thinking is correct and your equation is almost correct.
Since the cost is higher for fewer number of students, it should be first in your equation.

From here, multiply both sides by 100x(x-3) to get rid of your fractions and decimals.
You will then get a quadratic equation.
One of the roots will be your answer.
If you need more help, post another question.
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