Final answer:
The family can spend at least $500 for the month after covering their minimum monthly expenses of $1700, given that they earn $2200 a month.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the possible amount the family can spend for that month, we need to write an inequality that represents their budget situation. Given that the family earns $2200 a month and their expenses are at least $1700 a month, we can set up the inequality as follows:
E ≥ $1700
Where E represents the family's expenses. Since the family cannot spend more than they earn, the amount available for spending after expenses (S) can be represented by the inequality:
S = $2200 - E
Now, combining the two:
S = $2200 - E ≥ $2200 - $1700
Simplifying:
S ≥ $500
This inequality tells us that the family can spend at least $500 for the month after covering their minimum monthly expenses.