Question

A fruit stand has to decide what to charge for their produce. They need $5.30 for 1 apple and 1 orange.

They also need $7.30 for 1 apple and 2 oranges. We put this information into a system of linear equations,

Answer 1

The price of Apples is $3.30 and the price of Oranges is $2.

Explanation:

So first treat the price of apples and the price of oranges as variables. Let's say that the price of an apple is X and the price of an orange is Y.

1 Apple and 1 Orange is $5.30, so the equation is 1X + 1Y = 5.30

1 Apple and 2 Oranges is 7.30 so the equation is 1X + 2Y = 7.30

Now, adjust one of the equations so you can know the price of one thing in relation to the price of the other.

1X + 1Y = 5.30 can become 1X = 5.30 - 1Y

Now substitute this into the other equation.

1X + 2Y = 7.30 becomes 5.30 - 1Y + 2Y = 7.30. Now, either combine the Y values or combine the price values.

5.30 + 1Y = 7.30

Y = $2

Now that you have the Y value, replace it in one of the equations.

1X + 2$ = 5.30

1X = 3.30