Topic Details (Notes format)

How to Approach Algebraic Word Problems

Subject: Mathematics

Book: Maths Mastery

Algebraic word problems typically revolve around forming one or more equations based on a scenario. The steps: define variables, translate sentences into expressions, and solve systematically. For example: “A number is 5 less than twice another. If the sum is 23, find the numbers.” Let x be the first number, y the second. Then x = 2y – 5, x + y = 23. Solve to get y=14, x=23–14=9. Understanding how to parse language into algebraic form is pivotal in advanced mathematics, finance, or logical puzzles, turning everyday challenges into solvable equations.

Practice Questions

If a cone has a radius of 5 cm and a height of 12 cm, what is its slant height?

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If x^2 + 4x + 4 = 0, what is the value of x?

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The ratio of two numbers is 3:5, and their sum is 64. What are the numbers?

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The probability of rolling a sum of 7 with two dice is:

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If sin(θ) = 0.6 and θ is acute, what is cos(θ)?

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A rectangle has an area of 48 cm² and a length of 8 cm. What is its width?

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If the product of two numbers is 120 and their sum is 26, what are the numbers?

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A sum triples in 20 years at simple interest. What is the rate of interest per annum?

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If a:b = 5:7 and b:c = 6:11, what is a:c?

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What is the square root of 0.25?

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