SOLUTION: If the cost of an item is reported to have decreased 400% during the past 10 years, does that mean that the cost is four times lower than the original cost? Can you explain please.

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: If the cost of an item is reported to have decreased 400% during the past 10 years, does that mean that the cost is four times lower than the original cost? Can you explain please.      Log On


   

Question 484175: If the cost of an item is reported to have decreased 400% during the past 10 years, does that mean that the cost is four times lower than the original cost? Can you explain please.
Answer by chessace(471) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
The "reporter" is mathematically impaired.
A 100% decrease puts the cost at 0.
400% would mean that if it cost the customer $10 at first, after 10 years, the vendor would be paying customers $30 to cart the item away.