Question

The population of White Oak, Pennsylvania, decreased by 6% between the years of 1990 and 1998. If total population for the two years was 16,984, find the population in 1990 and 1998.
Please help I cannot figure this out!

Answer 1

Let x be population in 1990, y be population in 1998

x+y = 16,984
y = 0.94x --> 100% - 6% = 94%

now substitute in for y for top equation
--> x + (0.94x) = 16,984

solve for x

Answer 2

can you get it from here?

Answer 3

I'm trying to see if I can get it. Thank you for your help

Answer 4

ok no problem :)

Answer 5

Do I multiply the .94 to get it to the other side or do I divide it ?

Answer 6

you would divide it...but first you have to combine like terms
what is x+0.94x ?

Answer 7

.94x to the second power?

Answer 8

nope, thats if you multiply them..you are adding them

Answer 9

I can't get it

Answer 10

sure you can, just add the coefficients
example:
3x+4x = 7x

Answer 11

so would it be 1.94x

Answer 12

yep...now divide the 1.94 to both sides to get x by itself

Answer 13

It gives me 8754.6

Answer 14

correct

Answer 15

now find y

Answer 16

8230

Answer 17

youre the best!!!!!!