Chapter 8.3, Problem 20HP

To determine

Write a two step equation with a solution of 6. Write the equation using both words and symbols.

Answer to Problem 20HP

For $17 the car can be driven 6 miles.

Explanation of Solution

Given:

Write a two step equation with a solution of 6. Write the equation using both words and symbols.

Concept Used:

If a rental car costs $5 plus $2 per mile driven, how many miles can be driven for $17?

Translating this into an equation gives $5+2m=17$ where m is the number of miles driven.

The equation: $5+2m=17$

Calculation:

If a rental car costs $5 plus $2 per mile driven, how many miles can be driven for $17?

Translating this into an equation gives $5+2m=17$ where m is the number of miles driven.

The equation: $5+2m=17$

Subtracting 5 on both sides gives: $5-\text{5}+2m=17-5\Rightarrow 2m=12$

Dividing both sides by 2 gives: $\frac{2m}{2}=\frac{12}{2}\Rightarrow m=6$

Since m was the number of miles of driven, the solution to the equation is interpreted as 6 miles can be driven.

Thus, for $17 the car can be driven 6 miles.