Two florists purchased flower bouquets and vases at the same store.
The first florist bought 3 flower bouquets and 5 vases for a total of $25.75. The second florist bought 8 flower bouquets and 2 vases for a total of $29.00.
x - the number of flower bouquets y - the number of vases
The first florist bought 3 flower bouquets and 5 vases for a total of $25.75: 3x + 5y = 25.75
The second florist bought 8 flower bouquets and 2 vases for a total of $29.00: 8x + 2y = 29
This is the system of two equations: 3x + 5y = 25.75 8x + 2y = 29 ____ Divide the second equation by 2: 3x + 5y = 25.75 4x + y = 14.50 ____ Express the second equation in the terms of y: 3x + 5y = 25.75 y = 14.50 - 4x ____ Substitute y in the first equation: 3x + 5(14.50 - 4x) = 25.75 3x + 72.50 - 20x = 25.75 -17x = 25.75 - 72.50 -17x = -46.75 x = -46.75/-17 x = $2.75