Final answer:
To find the number of rugs originally bought, we can set up equations for profit. By using the given information and solving the equations, we can determine that the manager originally bought 50 rugs.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the number of rugs originally bought, we need to use the equations for profit.
Let's assume that the manager bought 'x' rugs originally. The cost of each rug is $16, so the total cost of the rugs is $16x.
The manager sells all but 6 rugs for $22 each, making a profit of $168. So, the revenue is ($22 * (x-6)).
Profit = Revenue - Cost
168 = ($22 * (x-6)) - ($16x)
168 = 22x - 132 - 16x
168 = 6x - 132
6x = 168 + 132
6x = 300
x = 50
Therefore, the manager originally bought 50 rugs.