.
Let x be the (unknown) number.
First sentence is translated into this expression 3*(x+15).
Second sentence is translated into this expression 5*(x-4).
These numbers are the same, so we write equation
3*(x+15) = 5*(x-4).
Then we solve equation using standard procedures
3x + 45 = 5x - 20
45 + 20 = 5x - 3x
65 = 2x
x = 65/2 = 32.5.
ANSWER. The number is 32.5.
CHECK. You can easily check that 3(x+5) = 3*(32.5+5) = 142.5 is the same
as 3*(x-4) = 3*(32.5-4) = 142.5. It confirms the answer.
Solved.
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If you want to learn on how to solve simple and simplest linear equations, read the lesson
- HOW TO solve a linear equation
in this site.
Consider this lesson as your textbook, handbook, tutorials and (free of charge) home teacher.
Happy learning (!)