Answer:
The total cost of the ink supplies can be represented in two different ways, as follows:
a. 3p (1+r)
b. p * (1+ r) * 3
Explanation:
a) Data and Calculations:
Number of printer cartridges bought = 3
Sales tax rate = 7%
The total cost can be represented as:
Total cost = 3p (1+r)
where p = the price of a printer cartridge
and r = the sales tax rate
Alternatively, the total cost can be represented as:
Total cost = p * (1+ r) * 3
b) Whichever expression is used, the total cost derived will remain the same. The first expression includes the sales tax in the total cost, while the second expression includes the sales tax in the cost of the unit before arriving at the total cost.