SOLUTION: wendy has 52 coins consisting of nickels and pennies. If the value of the coins is $1.20 then how many of each coin type does she have?

Question 239166: wendy has 52 coins consisting of nickels and pennies. If the value of the coins is $1.20 then how many of each coin type does she have?
Found 2 solutions by rapaljer, JimboP1977:
Answer by rapaljer(4671) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
I have a MUCH more detailed explanation for solving Word Problems in general, and specifically these Coin Problems on my own website. To find my website, do a "Bing" search or a "Google" search for my last name "Rapalje". Near the top of the search list, look for "Rapalje Homepage." Near the top of my Homepage, look for the link "Basic, Intermediate, and College Algebra: One Step at a Time." Choose the link "Basic Algebra" and look in "Chapter 1" for "Section 1.10 Word Problems"--the Coin Problems are in "Section 1.10, Part II." In this section, you will find my own non-traditional explanation especially designed for students that have trouble understanding their own books. My own explanations, together with examples and exercises, are also supported by my "MATH IN LIVING COLOR" pages in which I've solved the hardest problems IN COLOR.

In addition to these, I have a LOT of similar resources, both in written and video form, that may help you on a number of topics. Anyone can send me an Email at rapaljer@scc-fl.edu, and I'll be glad to tell you about the topics and pages that are available on the website.

Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole State College of Florida
Altamonte Springs Campus

Now, here is the solution to your specific problem:

Let x = number of nickels
52-x = number of pennies

5*x + 1*(52-x) = 120
5x+52-x = 120
4x+52=120
4x= 120-52
4x=68
x=68/4=17 Nickels

52-x=52-17=35 Pennies

Check: See if the total value of the coins is $1.20

17 Nickels*5= $.85
35 Pennies*1 =$.35
Total is $1.10, so it checks!!
Answer by JimboP1977(311) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let N = Number of Nickel Coins
P = Number of Pennie Coins
$0.05N+$0.01P = $1.20
We know that N+P=52
Rearranging we get P=52-N
So subsituting in gives $0.05N+$0.01(52-N) = $1.20
$0.05N+$0.52-$0.01N = $1.20
$0.04N+$0.52 = $1.20
$0.04N = $1.20 - $0.52
N = $0.68/$0.04
N = 17
So P = 35
Does that makes sense?

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