just put the words into symbols. If the numbers are x,y,z, respectively, then we are told that
y=z+5
x=2y
x+y+z=87
Now just solve the equations.
The students in a political science class are divided up into three categories: liberal,
conservative, or moderate. There are five more conservatives than moderates, and twice as
many liberals as conservatives. How many of each type are there if there is a total of 87
students in the class?
2 answers
Let m represent the moderates.
m + m + 5 + 2(m + 5) = 87
4m + 15 = 87
4m = 72
m = 18
m + m + 5 + 2(m + 5) = 87
4m + 15 = 87
4m = 72
m = 18