Math Problem

Problem type: Word definition reducing to a set of three linear algebraic equations in three unknowns. This is not a probability problem.
Let: x =Hal’s original amount of raffle tickets
y = Tom’s original amount of raffle tickets
z = Gary’s original amount of raffle tickets

Performing the three transfers of tickets per the word problem and simplifying the equations gives:
x – y – z =10
-x + 3y – z = 20
-x – y + 7z = 40

Just solve these equations if you know algebra, or use Mathcad or whatever….

I suggest you take a class in algebra.

throw the last guys post into a matrix, and punch it out

[Homer]

That's a pain in the ass (at least for me). I would just multiply both sides of equation 1 by 2 to get z = 20. Then I'd multiply equation 3 by 2 to solve for x = 65. Then solve any of the three with x and z plugged in to get y = 35. Different strokes for different folks I guess...

-- Homer