To solve for this, we need to set up an algebraic equation.
We have 8 packs of toy boats, meaning there are a specific amount of toy boats per pack, so we have to multiply 8 by a variable, x. Considering this is the total, too, we should let this sit at the end of the equation (=8x). Mac gave his friend 3 toy boats, meaning we will be subtracting 3 from our equation, but this will be on the other side of the equation with 8x (-3). We also have a current total of 13 toy boats after Mac gave away 3 boats, meaning that 13 will have to sit alone (+13).
With this information, let's set up an equation. With what we have, the equation will look like this:
8x - 3 = 13
Now all we have to do is solve for x. To start this off, we should add 3 to both sides to isolate the variable.
8x = 13 + 3; simplify.
8x = 16; All that is left is to divide both sides by 8 and we will have figured out how many toy boats were in each pack.
8x / 8 = x; 16 / 8 = 2.
We are left with our answer, x = 2. That being said, there were 2 toy boats per pack.
I hope this helps!
