Real-life situations can often be represented using linear equations.
Linear equations
are widely used for solving word problems. Common applications are geometry
problems, tracking population growth over time, calculating mileage rates,
predicting profit, determining age, and solving number problem, among others.
We often encounter problems that can be solved using equations. To answer these
problems, it is helpful to denote the unknown quantity with a variable and create an
equation based on the given conditions. Then solve the equations using various methods
such as trial and error, systematic approaches, or applying properties of equality.
Depending on the nature of the equation, some methods may be more efficient than
others.
The purpose of studying this lesson is to simplify solving word problems. The
equations are typically presented in words; they are known as word problems. Using your
knowledge of solving single-variable equations, you have already practiced solving real-life
problems. Solving word problems is both a challenging and rewarding experience.
What is a linear equation?
Linear equation- an algebraic equation where each term has an exponent of 1
and when this equation is graphed, it always results in a straight line.
Solving Word Problems Involving Linear Equations in One Variable
Solving word problems involves writing and solving equations. A word problem generally
states some numerical relationships and asks a question. The information given is used to
write an equation. Then solve the equation to find the unknown or what is being asked. The
equation should always be equal on both sides. The following steps are involved while
restating a situation into a mathematical statement:
Step 1: Read the problem and identify the unknown quantity.
Step 2: Choose a variable to represent this quantity.
Step 3: Formulate the equation for the variable to be determined.
Step 4: Solve the equation using any of the methods learnt earlier.
Step 5: Check the answer to make sure it makes sense
Worked Example
A. Number Problems
1. Find two consecutive integers whose sum is 29.
Representation: Let: x - be the first number
x + 1- the second number
Equation: x + x +1 = 29
Solve for the equation applying the properties of equality.
x + x + 1 = 29 Addition Property of Equality
2x + 1 = 29
2x + 1 – 1 = 29 -1
2x = 28 Multiplication Property of Equality
x = 14
Therefore, the first number is x = 14, and the second number is x + 1 = 14 + 1 =15
2. The difference between the two numbers is 72. The larger number is 3 less than six times
the smaller number. Find the two numbers.
Representation: Let: x - be the smaller number
6x – 3 - the larger number
Equation: Larger number – smaller number = 72
6x – 3 – (x) = 72
5x – 3 = 72
5x – 3 + 3 = 72 + 3
5x = 75
x = 15
Therefore, the first number is 15.
To find the second number, substitute the obtained value of x.
6x – 3
6(15) – 3 = 87
The second number is 87.
B. Age Problem
In solving the age problem, represent the age of one person as x and the ages of all other
people in the problem in terms also of the variable x. Find the relationship between the
ages of the people involved in the problem.
1. The age of Bianca is 4 more than 3 times the age of Ryan. The sum of their ages is 32.
Find their ages.
Representation: Let: x – be the age of Ryan
3x + 4 – age of Bianca
Equation: Age of Ryan + Age of Bianca = 32
x + 3x + 4 = 32
4x + 4 = 32
4x = 32 – 4
4x = 28
x=7
Therefore, Ryan is 7 years old, and Bianca is 3(7) + 4 = 25 years old
2. Ely’s mother is 35 years old. Three years ago, she was 4 times as old as Ely was then.
How old is Ely now?
Representation: Let: x = Ely’s age
x – 3 = Ely’s age three years ago
4(3x – 4) – four times Ely’s age three years ago
35 – 3 = 32 – mother’s age three years ago
Equation: 4 (x -3) = 32
4x – 12 = 32
4x = 32 + 12
4x = 44
x = 11
Therefore, Ely’s age now is 11 years old.
ACTIVITY 7A. Let’s Solve This!
NAME: ____________________________ DATE: ______________ SCORE: ________
Solve the following word problems following the steps provided. Put your answers inside the
box.
Step 1: Read the problem and identify the unknown quantity.
Step 2: Choose a variable to represent this quantity.
Step 3: Formulate the equation for the variable to be determined.
Step 4: Solve the equation using any of the methods learnt earlier.
Step 5: Check the answer to make sure it makes sense
1. The larger of two numbers is 5 less than twice the smaller, and their sum is 28.
Representation(s)
Equation
Solution
Final Answer
ACTIVITY 7B. Let’s Solve This!
NAME: ____________________________ DATE: ______________ SCORE: ________
Solve the following word problems following the steps provided. Put your answers inside the
box.
Step 1: Read the problem and identify the unknown quantity.
Step 2: Choose a variable to represent this quantity.
Step 3: Formulate the equation for the variable to be determined.
Step 4: Solve the equation using any of the methods learnt earlier.
Step 5: Check the answer to make sure it makes sense
2. Shane is twice as old as Annie. Ten years ago, her age was thrice of Annie. Find their
present age.
Representation(s)
Equation
Solution
Final Answer