Question

Scott and Dan each improved their yards by planting hostas and shrubs. They bought their supplies from the same store. Scott spent $150 on 9 hostas and 12 shrubs. Dan spent $41 on 4 hostas and 3 shrubs. What is the cost of one hosta and the cost of one shrub?

Answer 1

shrub = $11

hosta = $2

Explanation:

Two equations can be derived from the equation

9h + 12s = 150 equation 1

4h + 3s = 41 equation 2

s = shrubs

h = hostas

this question can be solved using simultaneous equation

Multiply equation 2 by 4

16h + 12s = 164 equation 3

Subtract equation 1 from 3

7h = 14

h = 2

substitute for h in equation 1

9(2) + 12s = 150

12s = 150 - 18

12s = 132

s = 11