Question 1203822
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Bertrom and Ernie had $988 altogether. After Bertram spent 4/5 of his money 
and Ernie spent 1/3 of his money they had an equal amount o money left. 
How much money did Ernie hove at first?
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<pre>
Write equations as you read the problem

    B + E = 988         (1)     (for the sum of their money, initially)

    {{{(1/5)*B}}} = {{{(2/3)*E}}}    (2)     (for remaining money)



From equation (2), you have B = {{{(10/3)*E}}}.

Substitute it into equation (1).  You will get

    {{{(10/3)E}}} + E = 988

    10E + 3E = 3*988

       13E   = 3*988

         E   = {{{(3*988)/13}}} = 228.


<U>ANSWER</U>.  Initially, Ernie had $288;  Bertrom had  $988 - $228 = $760.
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Solved.