Thread: Fractions

If 2/9 of a number is 36, then the number is

A) 162 (B)8 (C)324 (D)648

The proper way to do this is to set up an equation for the number you're trying to find. Any thoughts on what that equation might be?

iv worked this one out. 162/36 dived by 2 = 81/18 divided by 9 = 9/2 thanks mate

Yes, that's right- though this is a strange way of putting it! It took me a moment to realize that you were using "/" as a 'separator', not meaning division. You are saying, "The answer is 162. 36 divided by 2 = 18." (not "81"- that was a typo). But now I am confused. You say "18 divided by 9 is 2." And therefore ???? Where did "162" come from.

In fact, the problem is "2/ 9 of a number is 36". That is, if you multiply a number by 2 and then divide by 9, you get 36. Okay, to go back to the number work backwards! Instead of multiplying by 2, divide by 2: 36 divided by 2 is 18, just as you say. Instead of dividing by 9, multiply by 9: 18 times 9 is 162.

Hi Spixol,

i would suggest you to put an equation (as per john advised) rather than try one by one.

let substitute the number as x, then;

2/9 of x = 36
or
2/9 * x = 36

x = 36*9/2

x= 162


cheers...