Work Problems and Equations

The video tutorial explains the work formula used to calculate the time taken by two people or objects working together to complete a job. It introduces the formula 1/a + 1/b = 1/t, where 'a' and 'b' are the times taken by each person individually, and 't' is the time taken together. An example problem involving Joe and Cindy painting an apartment is used to demonstrate the formula. The tutorial walks through solving the equation, simplifying it, and interpreting the result to ensure it is reasonable. The solution is expressed in different forms: fraction, mixed number, and decimal.

What is the purpose of the work formula?

• To determine the time taken by two people working together

• To measure the distance between two points

• To calculate the speed of a moving object

• To find the area of a rectangle

In the work formula, what does 'a' represent?

• The time it takes for the second person to complete the job alone

• The total time taken by both people working separately

• The time it takes for the first person to complete the job alone

• The time it takes for both people to complete the job together

How long does it take Joe to paint the apartment alone?

• 7 hours

• 9 hours

• 11 hours

• 5 hours

What is the equation set up for Joe and Cindy's painting problem?

• 1/7 + 1/9 = 1/t

• 1/7 + 1/9 = t

• 7 + 9 = t

• 1/7 + 9 = 1/t

What is the least common multiple of 7 and 9 used in the equation?

• 63

• 56

• 72

• 49

After distributing and simplifying, what is the equation for t?

• 16t = 63

• 9t = 63

• 7t = 63

• t = 63

How can the solution 63/16 be expressed as a mixed number?

• 4 and 1/16

• 4 and 15/16

• 3 and 15/16

• 3 and 1/16

Why is it important to verify the solution of a work problem?

• To check if the solution is a whole number

• To confirm the solution is less than individual times

• To verify the solution is a decimal

• To ensure the solution is greater than individual times