Word problem maybe solved by quadratic equation.

AI Thread Summary
Genelle and Eljen can paint a room together in 4 hours, with Genelle taking two hours less than Eljen to complete the task alone. To solve the problem, the rates of work for both individuals must be established using the equation 1/a + 1/b = 1/t, where a and b represent the time taken by Genelle and Eljen, respectively, and t is the time taken when they work together. By substituting the known values into this equation, the unknowns can be determined. The quadratic equation may be necessary to find the exact time it takes Eljen to paint the room alone. This approach effectively utilizes the relationship between their individual work rates.
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Homework Statement


Here the the word problem:
Genelle and Eljen can paint a room together in 4 hours. Working alone, Genelle can paint the room in two hours less than Eljen can. Find how long it takes Eljen to paint the room alone.

Homework Equations


Maybe, this problem can be solved using the quadratic equation.

The Attempt at a Solution


Please.. it's about quadratic erquation.
 
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A general approach in these is to think about the RATES of work. If you have two people, say A and B, who require a hours and b hours when working alone to finish a job, and t hours when working together, the numbers a, b, and t are connected with this equation:

<br /> \frac 1 a + \frac 1 b = \frac 1 t<br />

Use the information provided in your question to set up the unknowns, and then the appropriate equation.
 
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