Question

Ben has four more than twice as many CDs as Jake. If they have a
total of 31 CDs, how many CDs does Jake have?
(1) 9 (3) 14
(2) 13 (4) 22

Answer 1

B = the number of CDs owned by Ben
J = the number of CSs owned by Jake
Now you can write 2 different equations using J and B and the info given in the problem. Can you construct one of the equations?

Answer 2

I know that i dont know how to get to the answer

Answer 3

you can't just go straight for the answer, and nobody is going to just give you the answer here. work with me. I got you started. the total number of cds is 31. what equation, with the variables J and B, can you make using that total of 31?

Answer 4

2J=31 and 4B=31?

Answer 5

where did you get 2 and 4?

Answer 6

okay continue

Answer 7

B = the number of CDs owned by Ben
J = the number of CSs owned by Jake
The total number of their CDs combined is 31.
Write an equation reflecting the above facts. You can do it.

Answer 8

2B+4=31

Answer 9

When you see "total" think "add everything up"
Add Ben's CDs and Jake's CDs together and the result is 31 CDs

Answer 10

In English: Ben's CDs plus Jake's CDs equal 31 CDs
In Algebra: B + J = 31

Answer 11

2J+4B=31

Answer 12

I have no idea what 2J + 4B = 31. I just gave you the equation I was looking for:
B + J = 31

Answer 13

NOW we can construct an equation reflecting that first sentence:
"Ben has four more than twice as many CDs as Jake"
Ben CDs = 4 + (2 x Jake's CDs)

Answer 14

B = 4+ 2J

Answer 15

2 equations, 2 unknowns:
B + J = 31
B = 4 + 2J
Use substitution to solve for B and J
Good luck.

Answer 16

so j equals 9

Answer 17

thank you