Our fruit vendor sets his prices according to the number of vowels and consonants in the name of the fruit. For each vowel, the price of the fruit is raised $0.07, and for each consonant, the price is raised $0.03. In the form of an algebraic expression, his method looks like this:
Price = $0.07v + $0.03c
The number of vowels in any given fruit name is represented by the variable v, and the number of consonants is represented by the variable c. It’s an unusual method for determining prices, surely, but maybe the vendor is a math nerd and can’t help it.
Since even the best at math make mistakes, let’s check his numbers. A banana has three vowels and three consonants. Let’s plug those numbers into the equation:
Price = $0.07(3) + $0.03(3)
Multiply first, and then add, according to order of operations:
Price = $0.21 + $0.09
Price = $0.30
He got his price right! While we’re at it, let’s offer to write in his price for a pomegranate. What will it be? We have to solve our equation with v equal to 5 and c equal to 6, corresponding with the number of vowels and consonants in the word “pomegranate:”
Price = $0.07(5) + $0.03(6)
Price = $0.35 + $0.18
Price = $0.53
So each pomegranate costs $0.53. For your effort, the vendor gives you one for free. Enjoy!
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