Help with word problem.

Question

A taxi charges a flat rate plus a certain charge per mile. A trip of 18 miles costs $23.6, while a trip of 22 miles costs $26.88. What is the flat rate? What is the charge per mile?

Answer 1

r+22c=26.88  where r=flat rate and c=cost per mile

r+18c=23.6

subtract the equations

4c=3.28

c=3.28/4

c=$0.82 cost per mile

substitute into either original equation

r+22(0.82)=26.88

r+18.04=26.88

r=26.88-18.04

r=$8.84 flat rate