Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics (5733)Algebra and FunctionsHard

A production manager is tracking the output of two different machines. Machine A produces 15 units per hour and has already produced 50 units. Machine B produces 20 units per hour and has already produced 20 units. After how many additional hours will both machines have produced the same total number of units?

  1. A2 hours
  2. B6 hours
  3. C8 hours
  4. D4 hours
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B. 6 hours

Set up an equation for the total units produced by each machine as a function of additional hours (h). For Machine A: 15h + 50. For Machine B: 20h + 20. Set these two expressions equal to each other and solve for h.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Incorrectly solved the equation or made arithmetic errors.
  • C. Incorrectly solved the equation or made arithmetic errors.
  • D. Incorrectly solved the equation or made arithmetic errors.

Translating Word Problems to Linear Equations

Converting a real-world scenario into algebraic expressions and equations to solve for an unknown quantity.

  • Identify the unknown variable(s).
  • Represent quantities using these variables.
  • Formulate an equation based on the relationships described in the problem.

Memory trick: Read, define, equate, solve, check.

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