SOLUTION: I have a word problem and I just need some help. I am 53 and i this has been as struggle. The question reads as follows. U.S. five-cent coins are made of a combination of 2 metals:

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: I have a word problem and I just need some help. I am 53 and i this has been as struggle. The question reads as follows. U.S. five-cent coins are made of a combination of 2 metals:      Log On


   

Question 904076: I have a word problem and I just need some help. I am 53 and i this has been as struggle. The question reads as follows. U.S. five-cent coins are made of a combination of 2 metals: nickel and copper. Fore every pound of nickel, 3lbs of copper are used. How many pounds of copper would be needed to make 560 lbs of coins? Well this is what I got from that. 1x + 3x =560 and i know that cannot be right. Can yo maybe do this and explain to me a little better what I am doing wrong. Please understand I failed Algebra in high school.
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
 

Hi

Let x represent  the constant of proportionality 1:3

 1x + 3x =560  No need to second guess yourself

4x = 560lb

x = 140lb, amount of nickel

copper: ++highlight_green%28420lb%29  3%2A140

And...checking

140 + 420 =  = 560lbs