Question 307100
Let D = number of coins of Dachun
A= number of coins of Austin


There are actually two equations:
D= 5A
D= A+ 16


Since both equations are in the form  "D=___", they are equal to each other:
5A=A+16


Subtract A from each side:
4A=16
A=4 coins


Solve for D in the first equation:
D=5A
D=5*4=20 coins.


Check in the other equation:
D=A+16
20=4+16  It checks!!


For additional explanation on the many different types of word problems, please see my own website.  You can find my website by doing a Google search for my name "Dr. Robert J. Rapalje".  Look for "Rapalje Homepage", which should be the first item on the search.  Once you find my homepage, for a written explanation, click on "Basic, Intermediate, and College Algebra: One Step at a Time."  Look in Basic Algebra in Chapter 1 for Section 1.10 on Word Problems.  There you will find a detailed explanation, and solutions to problems in LIVING COLOR!!


I have many other topics explained in this way from Basic, Intermediate, and College Algebra.  Please check out my website to see what I have.  It's all FREE, and if you send me an Email, I'll be glad to help you find something.  I'm not selling anything.  If you get a good explanation, math is usually not as hard as you think it is.


Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole State College of Florida
Altamonte Springs Campus