Alternative Solution Method

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 80 views

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into a simple yet intriguing mathematical problem that involves solving for an unknown variable. The problem states that Roberto had $88, which is eleven times as much money as Bianca had. We will use algebraic methods to represent Bianca's money with a variable and solve for its value.

Representing Bianca's Money with a Variable

Let's represent Bianca's money with the variable $x$ . Since Roberto had eleven times as much money as Bianca, we can express this relationship as an equation.

Equation Representation

11x = 88

In this equation, $11x$ represents the amount of money Roberto had, which is eleven times the amount of money Bianca had, represented by $x$ .

Solving for Bianca's Money

To solve for Bianca's money, we need to isolate the variable $x$ on one side of the equation. We can do this by dividing both sides of the equation by 11.

Dividing Both Sides by 11

\frac{11x}{11} = \frac{88}{11}

This simplifies to:

x = 8

Therefore, Bianca had $8.

Alternative Solution Method

Some students may be tempted to use the following equation to solve for Bianca's money:

x + 11 = 88

However, this equation is incorrect because it represents the amount of money Bianca had plus 11, not eleven times the amount of money Bianca had.

Subtracting 11 from Both Sides

If we were to subtract 11 from both sides of the equation, we would get:

x = 77

This is not the correct solution, as it represents the amount of money Bianca had minus 11, not eleven times the amount of money Bianca had.

Conclusion

In conclusion, to solve for Bianca's money, we need to represent the relationship between Roberto's and Bianca's money using an equation, and then isolate the variable $x$ on one side of the equation. By dividing both sides of the equation by 11, we can find that Bianca had $8.

Key Takeaways

Representing relationships between variables using equations is a fundamental concept in algebra.
Isolating variables on one side of an equation is a crucial step in solving for unknown values.
Using the correct equation and solution method is essential to avoid incorrect solutions.

Final Answer

Q: What is the correct equation to represent the relationship between Roberto's and Bianca's money?

A: The correct equation is $11x = 88$ , where $x$ represents the amount of money Bianca had.

Q: Why is the equation $x + 11 = 88$ incorrect?

A: The equation $x + 11 = 88$ is incorrect because it represents the amount of money Bianca had plus 11, not eleven times the amount of money Bianca had.

Q: How do I solve for Bianca's money using the correct equation?

A: To solve for Bianca's money, you need to isolate the variable $x$ on one side of the equation. You can do this by dividing both sides of the equation by 11.

Q: What is the correct solution for Bianca's money?

A: The correct solution for Bianca's money is $x = 8$ .

Q: Why is it important to use the correct equation and solution method?

A: Using the correct equation and solution method is essential to avoid incorrect solutions. In this case, using the equation $x + 11 = 88$ would result in an incorrect solution of $x = 77$ .

Q: Can you explain the concept of isolating variables on one side of an equation?

A: Yes, isolating variables on one side of an equation means getting the variable by itself on one side of the equation, without any other variables or constants on the same side. This is a crucial step in solving for unknown values.

Q: What is the relationship between Roberto's and Bianca's money?

A: The relationship between Roberto's and Bianca's money is that Roberto had eleven times as much money as Bianca had.

Q: How can I apply this concept to real-life problems?

A: You can apply this concept to real-life problems by representing relationships between variables using equations and then isolating the variables on one side of the equation to solve for unknown values.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving equations include:

Using the wrong equation or solution method
Not isolating the variable on one side of the equation
Not checking the solution for correctness

Q: How can I practice solving equations and improve my skills?

A: You can practice solving equations and improve your skills by:

Working on practice problems and exercises
Reviewing and understanding the concepts and formulas
Seeking help from teachers, tutors, or online resources

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving for Bianca's money involves representing the relationship between Roberto's and Bianca's money using an equation, and then isolating the variable $x$ on one side of the equation. By following the correct steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can solve for unknown values and apply this concept to real-life problems.