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Multiplication Mistake

Age 11 to 14
ShortChallenge Level Yellow starYellow star
Secondary curriculum
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Answer: 22



Using algebra
Let the number that Jane multiplied by be called $n$. Then $54n$ is $198$ more than $45n$.

So $54n=45n+198$, so $54n-45n=198$, so $9n=198$, so $n=198\div9=22$.



Trying different numbers and using proportion
10:    54$\times$10 = 540, 45$\times$10 = 450     difference = 90 which is 9$\times$10

20:   54$\times$20 = 1080, 45$\times$20 = 900    difference = 180 which is 9$\times$20

Need difference of 198 = 9$\times$22, so try 22

22:   54$\times$22 = 1188, 45$\times$20 = 990    difference = 192

Why is it 9 times the number? Because 54 $-$ 45 = 9



You can find more short problems, arranged by curriculum topic, in our short problems collection.

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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