Problema Solution

An experienced accountant can complete a tax return in two hours less than a "rookie" accountant. Working together, they can complete a tax return in 4 hours. How long would it take for the experienced accountant to complete the tax return working alone?

Answer provided by our tutors

Let


x = the time the experienced accountant needs to complete the tax return working alone, x>0


1/x work per hour = the rate of the experienced accountant


x + 2 = the time the "rookie" accountant needs to complete the tax return working alone


1/(x + 2) work per hour = the rate of the "rookie" accountant


1/4 work per hour = the together rate


1/x + 1/(x + 2) = 1/4

........


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........

x = 7.12 hr


The experienced accountant will need approximately 7.12 hours to complete the tax return working alone.