Machine A produces bolts at a uniform rate of 120 every 40 seconds, and Machine B produces bolts at a uniform rate of 100 every 20 seconds. If the two machines run simultaneously, how many seconds will it take for them to produce a total of 200 bolts?
Answer: By calculation, we find out that Machine A produces 3 bolts/sec, and Machine B produces 5 bolt/sec.
To find out how much they produce simultaneously, GMAT assumed that based on above, they make 8 bolts/sec, hence can find out how many sec it will take them to produce 200.
My question is, why did we not use the formula: 1/3 + 1/5 =1/T to find how much total they produce in 1 sec?
Any help appreciated!
Answer: By calculation, we find out that Machine A produces 3 bolts/sec, and Machine B produces 5 bolt/sec.
To find out how much they produce simultaneously, GMAT assumed that based on above, they make 8 bolts/sec, hence can find out how many sec it will take them to produce 200.
My question is, why did we not use the formula: 1/3 + 1/5 =1/T to find how much total they produce in 1 sec?
Any help appreciated!

















