Question

Write an equation to represent the situation and solve. On average, you can lose 5 pounds per month while dieting. Your goal is to lose 65 pounds. Represent each weight loss by a negative number. How many months will it take you to do this?

Short answer

Answer: It takes 13 months to lose 65 pounds at an average weight loss rate of 5 pounds per month.

Step-by-step solution

Define variables

Let x represent the number of months and y represent the total weight loss. Since we need to represent weight loss as negative numbers, use -5 for the average weight loss per month and -65 for the total weight loss goal.

Write the equation

Since the average weight loss per month is -5 pounds, and we want to find the number of months that it will take to lose -65 pounds, multiply the weight loss per month (-5) by the number of months (x). Then, set the result equal to the total weight loss (-65). The equation will be: -5x = -65

Solve the equation

To solve the equation, divide both sides by -5: -5x / -5 = -65 / -5 x = 13

Interpret the result

It takes 13 months to lose 65 pounds at an average weight loss rate of 5 pounds per month.