Answer:
15 birds
Explanation:
Substitition would be the best way to solve this because x and y have 1 as a coefficient, making this much easier on us.
First, let's set up a system of equations. The first equation represents the number of birds and cats, while the second one represents how much was spent on Tuesday.
x + y = 34
4.5x + 6.5y = 183
x represents the number of birds, while y represents the number of cats. First, let's isolate x on the first equation. The result will give us something we can solve the second equation with.
x + y = 34
To isolate x, subtract y from both sides.
x = 34 - y
We're going to solve this problem by substituting x with 34 - y. This'll give us only one variable in the equation, then we can solve from there.
4.5x + 6.5y = 183
Plug in 34 - y in place of x.
4.5(34 - y) + 6.5y = 183
Now distribute 4.5 to everything in parentheses.
153 - 4.5y + 6.5y = 183.
Simplify.
153 + 2y = 183
Subtract 153 from both sides.
2y = 30
Divide.
y = 15
And there's your answer! If you're required to check your solution, here's how to do it:
Choose one of your equations. The first one would be much easier.
x + y = 34
Plug in your y-value, 15, and solve for x.
x + 15 = 34
x = 19
Now plug both x and y back in. If the resulting equation is true, then your solution is correct.
19 + 15 = 34
34 = 34
The solution is correct!