SOLUTION: I have been trying to figure out this math problem for a while. It says Jeff takes 5hrs longer to build a fence than it takes Bill. When they work together, it takes them 6 hours.

Algebra ->  Radicals -> SOLUTION: I have been trying to figure out this math problem for a while. It says Jeff takes 5hrs longer to build a fence than it takes Bill. When they work together, it takes them 6 hours.      Log On


   

Question 612981: I have been trying to figure out this math problem for a while.
It says Jeff takes 5hrs longer to build a fence than it takes Bill. When they work together, it takes them 6 hours. How long would it take Bill to do the job alone? So far I have
1/x-5 + 1/x = 1/6
I am not sure were to go from there thank you
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
 

Hi, 

Jeff takes 5hrs longer to build a fence than it takes Bill.

Letting x and (x+5) represent Bill's and Jeff's times respectively



PER HOUR Key:

 1%2F%28x%2B5%29+%2B+1%2Fx+=+1%2F6   Yes!!

Multiplying thru with 6x(x+5) so as all denominators= 1

 6x + 6(x+5) = x(x+5)

   12x +30= x^2 + 5x

    x^2 - 7x - 30

factoring:

(x-10)(x+3)= 0

   x = 10 , x = -3  Throwing out x = -3

   x = 10hr is Bill's time and Jeff's is 15hr

  1/10 +1/15 = 25/150 = 1/6