Question

The cost of milk is modeled by a linear equation where four quarts (one gallon) costs $3.09 while two quarts

(half-gallon) costs $1.65. Write the linear equation that expresses the price in terms of quarts. How much would
an eight-quart container of milk cost?

Answer 1

linear equation to express the price is:

y=0.72x+0.21

An eight quarts will cost : $5.97

Explanation:

linear equation represent y=mx+b

let x=quarts ( x=4, x=2)

y= price (3.09 and y=1.65 )

two points (4,3.09) and (2,1.65)

need to find the slope m:

y2-y1/x2-x1

(1.65-3.09)/(2-4) ⇒ m=0.72

y=0.72x+b find b at point (2,1.65)

1.65=0.72(2) +b ⇒ b=0.21

y=0.72x +0.21

check : point (4,3.09)

y=0.72(4) +0.21

y=3.09 ( correct)

An eight quarts will cost :

y=0.72(8)+0.21

y=5.97 dollars