Question

what number must be subtracted from each term of the ratio becomes 7:15​

Answer 1

Answer: 3

Step-by-step explanation:

Define x: Let x be the number to be subtracted

Original ratio = 17 : 33

New ratio = 7 : 15

Form equation:  (17 - x)/(33 - x) = 7/15

Solve x:    (17 - x)/(33 - x) = 7/15

Cross multiply: 15(17 - x) = 7(33 - x)

Distribute 15 and 7:    255 -15x = 231 -7x

                                   255 = 231 -7x + 15x

                                   255 = 231 + 8x

                                   255-231 = 8x

Switch sides:                    8x = 24    

Divide by 8:                   x = 24/8 = 3

Answer: The number is 3