Final answer:
To find the cost of three pounds of pears, we need to set up an equation using the given information. Solving the equation will give us the cost of one pound of pears, which we can then multiply by three to find the total cost of three pounds of pears.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the cost of three pounds of pears, we need to first determine the cost of one pound of pears. Let's assume the cost of one pound of pears is P dollars. According to the given information, a pound of oranges costs 2 dollars less than a pound of pears. So, the cost of one pound of oranges would be P-2 dollars.
Next, we are given that ten pounds of oranges and eight pounds of pears cost 61 dollars. Using this information, we can set up the equation: 10(P-2) + 8P = 61. Simplifying the equation gives us 18P - 20 = 61. Solving for P, we find P = 9.
Therefore, the cost of three pounds of pears would be 3 x 9 = 27 dollars.