Question

The functions below represent the cost some homeowners pay for water and sewer usage. This is based on the number of 100-gallon units

of water used, defined by x.
Water usage: W(x) = 0.129x
Sewer usage: S(x) = 0.158x + 16.22
Based on this information, approximately what is the total amount a homeowner will pay if the water and sewer usage for one month is 3800
gallons?
A. $10.91
B. $21.12
C. $27.13
D. $43.35

Answer 1

Since the given functions represent the cost for water and sewer separately, the total cost will be the sum of both.

For water usage, W(x) = 0.129x, where x is the number of 100-gallon units of water used. So, for 3800 gallons, we have:

W(x) = 0.129 * (3800/100) = $4.91 (rounded to the nearest cent)

For sewer usage, S(x) = 0.158x + 16.22, where x is the number of 100-gallon units of water used. So, for 3800 gallons, we have:

S(x) = 0.158 * (3800/100) + 16.22 = $21.12 (rounded to the nearest cent)

Therefore, the total amount a homeowner will pay for 3800 gallons of water and sewer usage for one month is:

Total cost = W(x) + S(x) = $4.91 + $21.12 = $26.03 (rounded to the nearest cent)

So, the closest answer choice is C. $27.13.