Final answer:
To find the maximum number of apple turnovers Tracy can purchase, set up an equation using the cost of bear claws and apple turnovers. Use trial and error to find the largest value of 'y' that satisfies the equation.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the maximum number of apple turnovers Tracy can purchase, we need to compare the cost of bear claws and apple turnovers. Let's assume Tracy wants to buy 'x' bear claws and 'y' apple turnovers.
The cost of bear claws is $1.25 each, so the total cost of bear claws would be 1.25x. The cost of apple turnovers is $1.45 each, so the total cost of apple turnovers would be 1.45y.
Since Tracy's budget is $40, we can set up the equation 1.25x + 1.45y = 40. To maximize the number of apple turnovers, we want to find the largest whole number value for 'y' that satisfies this equation.
To solve this problem, we can use trial and error. Start with a value of 'y' and substitute it into the equation to see if it works. Keep increasing 'y' until the equation is satisfied.
After trial and error, we find that Tracy can purchase a maximum of 17 apple turnovers with her budget.