SOLUTION: Pipe A can empty a pool in 8 hours. If pipe B is also used, the pool can be emptied in three hours. How long would it take Pipe b, by itself, to empty the pool. I can solve the

Algebra ->  Rate-of-work-word-problems -> SOLUTION: Pipe A can empty a pool in 8 hours. If pipe B is also used, the pool can be emptied in three hours. How long would it take Pipe b, by itself, to empty the pool. I can solve the       Log On


   

Question 38336: Pipe A can empty a pool in 8 hours. If pipe B is also used, the pool can be emptied in three hours. How long would it take Pipe b, by itself, to empty the pool.
I can solve the "work together" problems with ease. I am stumped on how to isolate the variable.
this problem comes from a worksheet made by Algebra with Pizzazz!
Answer by Paul(988) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let x be the rate for pipe b
Equation:
1%2F8%2B1%2Fx=1%2F3
1%28%288%29%2B%28x%29%29=%28%288%29%28x%29%29%2F3
8%2Bx=8x%2F3
8x=24%2B3x
5x=24
x=4.8
Hence, it would take pipe b 4.8 hours to empty the pool.
Paul.