Find Two Numbers -- Have Two Equations and Two Unknowns

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving two numbers that add up to 72, with one number being twice the other. Participants are examining the setup of the equations representing this relationship.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formulation of the equations x + y = 72 and x = 2y, questioning whether the original poster's setup is correct. Some express concern about the necessity of posting such straightforward problems, while others emphasize the importance of confirming understanding and checking work.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering differing views on whether the original poster should have attempted to solve the equations independently before posting. Some suggest that the original poster may be seeking validation of their approach, while others encourage self-sufficiency in solving similar problems.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of frustration from the original poster regarding perceived criticism and the pressure of managing time constraints, which may affect their ability to engage with the problem-solving process effectively.

  • #31
Delta2 said:
I can't disagree with this but usually to understand the insights (which are generalized insights if i can call them that way, they refer to a generic version of the problem) we have to work through specific instances, examples of the problem , usually one (at least a novice-newcomer) doesn't understand the generalized version unless he works with specific examples first.
Regardless of newcomer, almost-newcomer, or whatmore, students will often enough find the SAME exercise but as different examples, using differing values and maybe too diverse situations --but all of the examples being the SAME general form. That is why studying and applying algebra that way is so useful.
 

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