Final answer:
By solving a system of linear equations created from two fruit purchases, we find that the cost of one banana is $0.55.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves solving a system of linear equations to determine the cost of one banana. Two purchases are made: Chen buys 2 apples and 3 bananas for $2.35, while Megan buys 2 apples and 1 banana for $1.25. By setting up equations based on these transactions and solving for the unknowns, we can find the cost of one banana.
Let the cost of an apple be 'A' and the cost of a banana be 'B'.
For Chen's purchase: 2A + 3B = $2.35.
For Megan's purchase: 2A + 1B = $1.25.
Subtract the second equation from the first to eliminate 'A' and solve for 'B'.
This gives us 2B = $1.10,
so one banana costs B = $0.55.