Simple algebra problem: Check my work please?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the required score on a final exam to achieve a specific average in a class, where the final exam has a different weight compared to regular tests. The subject area is algebra, focusing on averages and weighted scores.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the setup of the equation used to calculate the average, with some questioning the division by 4 instead of 5, considering the final exam's weight.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing debate regarding the correct method to calculate the average, with some participants affirming the original poster's approach while others challenge it, suggesting that the final exam should be treated as two tests in the denominator.

Contextual Notes

Participants note discrepancies between the calculated result and the answer provided in the textbook, indicating a potential misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the problem setup.

Holocene
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Homework Statement



The grade in a class is determined by three tests and a final exam. The final exam counts twice as much as a test. A student's three test grades are 78, 82, and 100. What does he need to score on the final exam to bring his average up to 90?



Homework Equations



Please check this work; book is not giving this answer as a solution.


The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\displaystyle{\frac{78 + 82 + 100 + 2x}{4} = 90}[/tex]

[tex]\displaystyle{\frac{260 + 2x}{4} = 90}[/tex]

[tex]\displaystyle{260 + 2x = 360}[/tex]

[tex]\displaystyle{2x = 100}[/tex]

[tex]\displaystyle{x = 50}[/tex]

The student needs a score of 50 on the final exam to yeild an overall average of 90.
 
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That's right.
 
rocophysics said:
That's right.

Thanks. :smile:

Book is giving "95" as an answer...:rolleyes:
 
Holocene said:
Thanks. :smile:

Book is giving "95" as an answer...:rolleyes:
I'm going to laugh if that's right, but I don't think it is :-]
 
What?! That's really, really wrong. You need to be dividing by 5, not 4.

It helps to do a quick reality check on these. His average right now is not a 90. How on Earth would failing a test bring his score up?
 
zhentil is correct. If you are going to count the final exam as worth 2x in the numerator then you must count it as 2 tests in the denominator.
 

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