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Oh for the Mathematics of Yesteryear

Age 11 to 14
Challenge Level Yellow starYellow starYellow star
  • Problem
  • Getting Started
  • Student Solutions

Correct solutions were received from Mary (Birchwood Community High School) and Chor Kiang. Well done.

Part 1

First, find the total ounces of bread.
$600 \times35 \times24$ ounces $= 504000$ ounces

Now, find the new number of men-shares needed.
$4800 \times45 = 216000$

Divide $504000$ ounces by $216000$ to get $2\frac{1}{3}$ ounces a day.

Hence, each man must only eat $2\frac{1}{3}$ ounces of bread a day.

Part 2

$ £14  10\text{s} = 290\text{s}$

$ £5 \; 8\text{s } 9 \text{d} = 108.75$ shillings
 

Weight (cwt)   Distance (miles) Amount (shillings)
$60$ can be transported for $20$ for $290$
$1$ can be transported for $20$ for $\frac{290}{60} = \frac{29}{6}$
$1$ can be transported for $30$ $\frac{29}{6}\times\frac{30}{20}= 7.25$
$\frac{1}{7.25}$ can be transported for $30$ $1$
$\frac{1}{7.25}\times 108.75$ can be transported for $30$ $108.75$

Since $\frac{108.75}{7.25} = 15$

$15$ cwt can be carried for $30$ miles at a cost of $ £5 \; 8\text{s } 9 \text{d}$


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