math problem....?

The time it takes to set up a circus tent varies inversely with the number E of elephants used. If 12 elephants can set up a tent in 4 hours, how long will it take 3 elephants?

Comments

  • Time = Constant / Elephants

    Constant = 12 elephants * 4 hours = 48 elephant hours

    for 3 elephants

    Time =48 / 3 = 16 hours

  • although #1 seems right, when you look at the problem, it doesnt make sense: if it takes 12 elephants to work in 4 hours, why would it take less elephants to set up a tent in less hours? it seems that it would take 3 elephants 16 hours to do the work (quadruple the hours it would take 12 elephants) I think #2 is right--16 hours...

  • 16 Hours

    1/4 of amount of elephants, so each elephant does 4 times more work. 4 hours times 4 is 16 hours

  • 12 /4 = 3 / n

    (3*4) / 12 = 1 hour

  • T = k/E

    k = T*E = 4*12 = 48

    T = 48/3 = 16, ANSWER

  • 16 HOURS

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