Final answer:
In the given problem, x represents the number of skis rented and y represents the number of snowboards rented. By setting up a system of equations using the given information, we can find the values of x and y. In this case, 18 skis and 10 snowboards were rented.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two variables in the problem are:
A. x represents the number of skis rented, y represents the number of snowboards rented.
To solve the problem, we need to set up a system of equations using the given information. We know that the cost of renting skis is $16 and the cost of renting snowboards is $19. We also know that 28 people rented equipment and the resort brought in $478. So, we can set up the following equations:
x + y = 28 (equation 1)
16x + 19y = 478 (equation 2)
By solving this system of equations, we can find the values of x and y, which represent the number of skis and snowboards rented, respectively.
Multiplying equation 1 by 16, we get:
16x + 16y = 448 (equation 3)
Subtracting equation 3 from equation 2, we eliminate x:
16x + 19y - 16x - 16y = 478 - 448
3y = 30
y = 10
Substituting y = 10 into equation 1, we can find x:
x + 10 = 28
x = 18
Therefore, 18 skis and 10 snowboards were rented.