Final answer:
Using the direct variation equation and the given values, the constant of variation is calculated and then used to determine the value of b when a is 22, resulting in b being 79.2. (Option C).
Step-by-step explanation:
Since a varies directly as b, we can express their relationship with the equation a = kb, where k is the constant of variation.
Given that when a is 5, b is 18, we can find k by plugging in these values: 5 = k(18).
Solving for k, we get k = 5/18.
Now, we can use this constant to find the value of b when a is 22.
Plugging 22 into the equation gives us 22 = (5/18)b.
To solve for b, divide both sides by (5/18), resulting in b = (22 × 18) / 5, which simplifies to b = 79.2.
Therefore, the correct answer is Option C) 79.2.