Decoding Math Word Problems

Introduction to decoding math word problems:

In this article decoding math word problems, we will see how to decode the given word problem into mathematical format. To solve the word problems the first step should be decode the given words into mathematical expression. And word problems is used to realize the role of mathematics in real life.

Worked Example:

Example -1 Decoding math word problems.

One integer value is five more than thrice the another number, sum of the lesser integer and twice  the greater is 78. What is the greater integer?

Solution;

Lesser integer=x

Greater integer=3x+5

x+2(3x+5)=78

By simplifying  this equation we can get the lesser and greater  integer.

Example -2 Decoding math word problems.

Hare and Tortoise starts from the same place in Newjercey but at a different time. Hare starts at 3 am and walks at 25 miles/hour . Tortoise follows Hare and starts 6 am with the speed of 15 miles/hour. At what time Hare and Tortoise will meet each other?

Solution:

From the given statement the distance is same

Speed=`(Distance)/(Time)`

Hare starts at x hour and walks at 25 miles/hour

Tortoise starts at (x-3) hour and walks at 15 miles/hour

Distance =speed `xx` time

25x=15(x-3)

By finding the value of x we can find that at which time they will meet each other. Please express your views of this topic Variables in Algebra by commenting on blog.

Some more Problem

Example -3 Decoding math word problems.

One integer value is seven more than thrice the another number, sum of the square of lesser integer and square of twice  the greater is 108. What is the greater integer?

Solution:

Lesser integer=x

Greater integer=3x+7

`x^2+[2(3x+5)]^2=108`

Example -4 Decoding math word problems.

Tania's age after 10 years will be 3 times his age 2 years back. What is the  present age of Tania?

Solution:

Let Rajeev's present age be x years.

Tania's age after 10 years = (x + 10) year

Tania's age 5 years back = (x - 5) year.

x + 10 = 3 (x - 2)

By solving the above equation we will get Tania’s present age.

Example -5 Decoding math word problems.

The ages of two boys differ by 11 years when comparing. If 5 years ago, the elder one be 6 times as old as the younger boy,

find their present ages.

Solution:

Consider the age of the younger boy be x years.

The age of the elder person = (x + 11) years.

:. 6 (x - 5) = (x + 11 - 5)

From the above equation we can get their present ages