How do you define a variable and write an expression for each phrase: nine times the quotient of a number and three?

1 Answer
Jul 28, 2016

#9 xx (x div 3) = 9 xx x/3 = (9xx x)/3#

Explanation:

In algebra we can work with numbers even if we do not know their exact value.

WE can always just call a number #x, or y, or a, or b#

This is called defining the variable.

In this question where a number is being referred to, let's call the number "x".

Let the number be #x#

The word "quotient" means the answer to a division and is always used with the word "AND".

The QUOTIENT of #15 and "3 is 5 because "15/3 = 5#.

"nine times the quotient of a number and three" means

Muliply 9 by the answer to our number (x), divided by 3.

#9 xx (x div 3)#

OR #9 xx x/3#