Unraveling a Confusing Algebra Problem: My Step-by-Step Solution

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    Algebra Confusing
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an algebra problem involving the interpretation of variables related to time measured in days and months. Participants are attempting to clarify the setup and definitions within the problem statement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing the implications of measuring time in different units and the significance of defining the variable 'x' in the context of the problem. Questions about the instructor's expectations regarding rhetorical questions in the problem statement are also raised.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's interpretations and clarifications about the problem's requirements. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definitions of variables, but there is no clear consensus on the correct approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a typo in the original post, and participants are navigating the constraints of the problem statement, which includes rhetorical questions and a lack of additional information.

t3rom
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Homework Statement
Please see attached pictures for the confusing algebra problem
Relevant Equations
y = mx+b
m = y2-y1/x2-x1
This is the question:
question.png


This is what I did. I have no other idea what else I can do to solve this confusing problem.
FB237787-1A28-4041-9144-D806B7C5583C.jpeg


F162DF34-9ED0-4F9A-B280-2A4DACF794C1.jpeg
 
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My first comment is that you are making things hard for yourself by measuring time in days instead of months.

That said, all you are missing is a statement about what your x's are. For the January formula, 'x' is ...

Also, I notice that the problem statement has several questions. Most seem to be rhetorical. But what is your instructors policy on those kind of question? Are you supposed to comment on them?
 
.Scott said:
My first comment is that you are making things hard for yourself by measuring time in days instead of months.

That said, all you are missing is a statement about what your x's are. For the January formula, 'x' is ...

Also, I notice that the problem statement has several questions. Most seem to be rhetorical. But what is your instructors policy on those kind of question? Are you supposed to comment on them?

I haven't been proved with more information other than the given one. And yes, I am supposed to comment on them.
 
I think you meant "provided", not "proved" - and I didn't think that you were provided anything else specific to this problem. But the 'x's in your equations refer to the date in the month. Since the three months are different, I would note (for example) that for the January function, x is the date in January.
 
Last edited:
.Scott said:
I think you meant "provided", not "proved" - and I didn't think that you were provided anything else specific to this problem. But the 'x's in your equations refer to the date in the month. Since the three months are different, I would note (for example) that for the January function, x is the date in January.

And: Your March equation is wrong.

Yeah, sorry that was a typo. Can you let me know what my March equation is supposed to be? I'm very confused with this question to be honest.
 
Actually - it is right. I misread the problem when I reread it.
 

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