Finding the Time: Solving a Rational Equation for Painting a Wall

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two individuals painting a wall, with specific rates of work given for each person. The goal is to determine how long it takes for the second person to paint the wall alone based on their combined work rate.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formulation of the problem, particularly whether the equation 3/x + 7/(x+2) = 22/10 is a correct representation of the scenario. There is also a question about the interpretation of the problem regarding whether it asks for the time taken by person #2 working alone.

Discussion Status

Some participants express confusion about how to start the problem and seek confirmation on their initial setup. There is acknowledgment that the proposed equation is on the right track, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the assumptions related to the rates of work and the interpretation of the problem statement, which may affect how they approach the solution.

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Homework Statement


Person 1 can paint 3m2 in x hours, person #2 can paint 7m2 in x + 2 hours however together they can paint 22m2 of the wall in 10 hours. How many hours did person #2 take to paint the wall?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Im confused at how to start the question. Would I arrange it to to be 3/x + 7/(x+2) = 22/10 if this is how you arrange it I know how to solve I just need to know if this step one is correct?
 
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Veronica_Oles said:

Homework Statement


Person 1 can paint 3m2 in x hours, person #2 can paint 7m2 in x + 2 hours however together they can paint 22m2 of the wall in 10 hours. How many hours did person #2 take to paint the wall?
Do you mean, "How many hours would person #2 take to paint the wall, working alone?"
Veronica_Oles said:

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Im confused at how to start the question. Would I arrange it to to be 3/x + 7/(x+2) = 22/10 if this is how you arrange it I know how to solve I just need to know if this step one is correct?
 
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Veronica_Oles said:
Im confused at how to start the question. Would I arrange it to to be 3/x + 7/(x+2) = 22/10 if this is how you arrange it I know how to solve I just need to know if this step one is correct?
You're on the right track here.
 
Mark44 said:
You're on the right track here.
Thank you.
 

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