Solving Math Ratio Questions: Find the Answer (Option B)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a system of equations involving ratios of three variables, x, y, and z. The original poster presents a specific equation set that leads to multiple-choice answers regarding the ratio of these variables.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various methods to manipulate the given equations, including substitution and trial and error with the provided options. Some participants question the efficiency of trying each option versus solving algebraically.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing different approaches and questioning the effectiveness of trial and error versus algebraic manipulation. Some guidance has been offered regarding how to proceed with the equations, but no consensus has been reached on the best method.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the original equations and the need to determine the correct ratio among the provided options. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the initial steps in solving the problem.

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1)If (x+y-z)/3
=(y+z-x)/4
=(z+x-y)/5,
then x:y:z=
A.3:4:5
B.8:7:9
C.9:16:25
D.15:12:20

The answer for the above question is option B. But I don't know how to solve this kind of questions. Can anyone tell me what should I do in the first step? Thanks for answering my question.
 
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step 1: 3*4*5=60
step 2: 20x+20y-20z=15y+...
 
Step2:20x+20y-20z=15y+15z-15x=12z+12x-12z
Step3:35x+32y=27y+35z=32z+27x

x=4(z-y)
y=7(z-x)
z=9(x-y)

That's what I solve from the above equation. After that, what should I do? Thanks.
 
Did you see AntonVrba's response? Since you asked to choose among different possible answers, the simplest thing to do is try each.
x= 3, y= 4, z= 5 ARE in ratio 3:4:5. Do those numbers satisfy the original equations?

If not try x= 8, y=7, z= 9, etc.
 
no need for trial and error of trying given posibilities, you can calculate
from the three relationships x,y,z that you already have solved by substituting first y and then for second z in the first of your equations.

x = 4z - 4y
= 4z - 28z + 28x
or
24z = 27x
8z = 9 x
8/9 = x/z or 8:9 = x:z

and

x = 4z - 4y
x = 36x - 36y - 4y
...
 
Yeah, but it works and thought it would be simpler for fork.
 

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