The cost of apple before tax is 18.60
Using the parameters given :
- cost + tax = $19.16
- Tax percent = 3%
Let total amount before tax = t
We have:
t + 0.03t = 19.16
1.03t = 19.16
t = 19.16 / 1.03
t = 18.60
Therefore, the cost of apple before tax is 18.60