Question

the sum of eric's and bob's weights is 9 times greater than the difference of their weights. the positive difference of their weights is also 240 lbs less than the sum. if eric weighs less than bob, find bob's weight.

i can't find an equation for this. any help is appreciated!!
mel :)

Answer 1

Let E stand for Eric's weight and B stand for Bob's weight.

From the first sentence:

E + B = 9(B - E)

E + B = 9B - 9E

Transposing gives you:

10E = 8B

E = .8B

From the remaining sentences:

B - E = B + E - 240

Substitute .8B for E in the second equation to solve for B. Put that value in the first equation to find E. Check by putting both values in the second equation.

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

Answer 2

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