I am in a business math course and here is the question. Staples sells cartons of pens ($10) and rubber bands ($6). Leona ordered a total of 26 cartons for $232. Hint: Let P = Pens.

How many of cartons of each did Leona order?

P = cases of pens

R = cases of rubber bands

Total cost = $232

Total Cost = cases of Pens x cost per case of pens + cases of bands x cost per case of bands

232 = 10 P + 6 R (equation 1)

The total number of cases is 26

26 = P + R (equation 2)

We now have two equations, and two unknowns (P & R). Since the equations are independent, we know we will have a unique solution.

Can you take it from there?

Hint: one way to solve it is to multiply both sides of Equation 2 by -6 and add the two equations.

I think Leona paid too much. We've got a guy here in town who sells office products for a lot less than that. :rolleyes:

P = cases of pens

R = cases of rubber bands

Total cost = $232

Total Cost = cases of Pens x cost per case of pens + cases of bands x cost per case of bands

232 = 10 P + 6 R (equation 1)

The total number of cases is 26

26 = P + R (equation 2)

We now have two equations, and two unknowns (P & R). Since the equations are independent, we know we will have a unique solution.

Can you take it from there?

Hint: one way to solve it is to multiply both sides of Equation 2 by -6 and add the two equations.

I think Leona paid too much. We've got a guy here in town who sells office products for a lot less than that. :rolleyes:


Lol thank you very much!