Final answer:
To find the combined cost of one beef patty and one veggie patty, we set up a system of equations using the given information. Solving the equations, we find that the cost of a beef patty is $6.50 and the cost of a veggie patty is $5. Therefore, the combined cost is $11.50.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the cost of one beef patty and one veggie patty, we can set up a system of equations. Let's denote the cost of a beef patty as 'x' and the cost of a veggie patty as 'y'. From the given information, we know that Brayden bought 6 beef patties and 3 veggie patties for a total of $54. Therefore, we have the equation:
6x + 3y = 54
We also know that the cost of one beef patty is $1.50 more than the cost of a veggie patty. This can be expressed as:
x = y + $1.50
We can substitute this expression for x in the first equation and solve for y:
6(y + $1.50) + 3y = 54
6y + $9 + 3y = 54
9y + $9 = 54
9y = 54 - $9
9y = $45
y = $45 / 9
y = $5
Now that we know the cost of a veggie patty is $5, we can substitute this value back into the expression for x to find the cost of a beef patty:
x = y + $1.50
x = $5 + $1.50
x = $6.50
Therefore, the combined cost of one beef patty and one veggie patty is $6.50 + $5 = $11.50.