Math Problem Statement
Linear equation with unknowns. 21. A, B, and C can do a piece of work in 10 days. A and B can do it in 12 days, A and C in 20 days. How many days would it take each to do the work alone?
Solution
This is a typical problem involving work rates. We will use the concept of rates of work to solve for the individual work rates of A, B, and C.
Step 1: Define the unknowns
Let:
- be the amount of work A can do in one day (A's work rate).
- be the amount of work B can do in one day (B's work rate).
- be the amount of work C can do in one day (C's work rate).
The total amount of work done is assumed to be 1 unit (the entire piece of work).
Step 2: Express the work rates in terms of the given conditions
-
A, B, and C together can complete the work in 10 days. Hence, their combined rate is:
-
A and B together can complete the work in 12 days. So, their combined rate is:
-
A and C together can complete the work in 20 days. So, their combined rate is:
Step 3: Set up the system of equations
We now have the following three equations:
Step 4: Solve the system of equations
Subtract Equation 2 from Equation 1:
Thus, , meaning C can do the work in 60 days.
Subtract Equation 3 from Equation 1:
Thus, , meaning B can do the work in 20 days.
Substitute into Equation 2:
Solving for : Thus, , meaning A can do the work in 30 days.
Final Answer:
- A can complete the work in 30 days.
- B can complete the work in 20 days.
- C can complete the work in 60 days.
Would you like further details or explanations on any part? Here are some related questions you might find interesting:
- How do you handle work problems when more than three workers are involved?
- How would the solution change if the rates were not constant?
- Can we apply similar methods to other types of rate problems, like speed or flow rates?
- How do we handle work rate problems with partial work done by some of the workers?
- What are the most common mistakes when solving work rate problems?
Tip: Always set up your unknowns clearly when dealing with work rate problems—this keeps your equations organized and easy to solve!
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Work and Time Problems
Rates of Work
System of Equations
Formulas
Work Rate = 1 / Time
A + B + C = 1 / Total Work Time
A + B = 1 / Time for A and B
A + C = 1 / Time for A and C
Theorems
Rate of Work Theorem
System of Linear Equations
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12