Final answer:
By rearranging the equation for total cost c to solve for p, it was derived that p = (c - 215) / 5. Plugging in a total cost of $300 reveals that Allie can have 17 people attend her birthday party within the budget provided.
Step-by-step explanation:
Part 1: Solving for p
To solve the equation c = 5p + 215 for p, first, we should isolate p on one side of the equation. We do this by subtracting 215 from both sides of the equation, giving us c - 215 = 5p. Then, we divide both sides by 5 to solve for p, which results in p = (c - 215) / 5.
Part 2: Determining Number of People for a $300 Party
If Allie's parents are willing to spend $300 for the party, we substitute c with 300 in the equation we derived: p = (300 - 215) / 5. Calculating this gives us p = 85 / 5, which results in p = 17. Therefore, Allie can have 17 people attend her skating rink birthday party.