Answer:
180 coins
Explanation:
N = number of nickels (no nickels spent)
D = number of dimes initially saved
D' = number of dimes left after spending
1) N = D + 43
2) D' = D - 17
3) N = 2*D' = 2*(D - 17)
Set equations 1) and 3) equal to each other and solve for D:
D + 43 = 2*(D - 17)
D + 43 = 2*D - 34
D = 43 + 34 = 77
N = D + 43 = 77 + 43 = 120 nickels left
D' = D - 17 = 77 - 17 = 60 dimes left
Total coins left = 120 + 60 = 180 coins (I hope this is not too confusing for you)
