Final answer:
To solve the problem, we represent Mike's money as m, Karla's as m + 8, and set up the equation m + (m + 8) = 31. Solving for m, we find Mike has $11.5, and Karla has $19.5.
Step-by-step explanation:
To write an equation to represent the given problem situation where together, Mike and Karla have $31, and Karla has 8 more dollars than Mike, we can use algebra. Let's denote the amount of money Mike has as m dollars. Since Karla has $8 more than Mike, we can express Karla's amount as m + 8 dollars. Adding these together gives us the total amount they have, which is $31. Thus, our equation based on this problem situation is:
m + (m + 8) = 31
Solving this equation, we combine like terms:
2m + 8 = 31
Subtracting 8 from both sides, we get:
2m = 23
And then dividing both sides by 2:
m = 11.5
Hence, Mike has $11.5, and Karla has $11.5 + $8 = $19.5.