SOLUTION: Libby can solve a math problem in 12 minutes. Nate can solve the same problem in 8 minutes. How long would it take Libby and Nate, working together, to solve the problem?

Algebra ->  Rate-of-work-word-problems -> SOLUTION: Libby can solve a math problem in 12 minutes. Nate can solve the same problem in 8 minutes. How long would it take Libby and Nate, working together, to solve the problem?      Log On


   

Question 604215: Libby can solve a math problem in 12 minutes. Nate can solve the same problem in 8 minutes. How long would it take Libby and Nate, working together, to solve the problem?
Answer by alicealc(293) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Libby's speed on solving problem = 1/12
Nate's speed on solving problem = 1/8

if they both work together then they will need t minutes to solve the problem
the equation will be:
1/12 + 1/8 = 1/t
2/24 + 3/24 = 1/t
5/24 = 1/t
t = 24/5 = 4.8

so, if they both work together, they will need 4.8 minutes to solve the problem