Final answer:
Martha's total budget for groceries is calculated using the proportion of the amount spent, which is $42.00 corresponding to 20% of her budget. By cross-multiplying and dividing, we find that her total budget is $210.00.
Step-by-step explanation:
To figure out Martha's budget for groceries based on the percentage she spent, we can use proportions. If Martha spent $42.00 on groceries, which represents 20% of her budget, we can set up the proportion as follows:
20% (the percentage spent on groceries) / 100% (the total budget) = $42.00 (amount spent on groceries) / B (total budget)
Now, we solve for B using cross-multiplication:
20% * B = 100% * $42.00
0.20 * B = $42.00
B = $42.00 / 0.20
B = $210.00
Hence, Martha's total budget is $210.00.