Archie had 3 times as many books as Fred. After Archie and Fred donated 36 books and 2 books away respectively, they were left with an equal number of books. How many books did Archie have at first?
| |
Archie |
Fred |
| Before |
3 u |
1 u |
| Change |
- 36 |
- 2 |
| After |
3 u - 36 |
1 u - 2 |
Archie and Fred had the same number of books left.
3 u - 36 = 1 u - 2
3 u - 1 u = 36 - 2
2 u = 34
1 u = 34 ÷ 2 = 17
Number of books that Archie had at first
= 3 u
= 3 x 17
= 51
Answer(s): 51
