Answer to Algebraic Word Problem
The speed at which Noelle and Vivian were traveling are denoted by the variables "a" and "b" mph
respectively.
Step 1
Extract the two simultaneous equations
a - b = 5.......(i)
a +b = 17.....(ii)
The two simultaneous equations were derived from
The speed between them which is 5mph and the total speed at which they were traveling given
that ,speed = distance/time
136/8
=17mph
Step 2
From equation (ii)
a + b = 17
a = 17 - b
The temporary value of a is "17 - b"
Step 3
Insert "17 - b" as the temporary value of a in equation (i)
From a - b = 5
17- b(-b) = 5
17 - b - b = 5
17 - 2b = 5
Step 4
Add "-17" to both side of the equation, since it is the additive inverse of "17"
17 - 17 - 2b = 5 -17
-2b = -12
Divide both side by the coefficient of "b"which is "-2"
-2b/-2 = -12/-2
b = 6mph
Step 5
From (I) insert the value of "b" as 6
a - b = 5
a -(6) = 5
Add +6 to both side of the equation since it is the additive inverse of "-6"
a-6+6= 5+6
