First worked 5 hrs second worked 15 hrs in total they charged $1500. what rate charged per hour by each mechanic if the sum of the two rates is $170 per hour

Question

first mechanics pay per hour?

second mechanics pay per hour?

Answer 1

We have two unknowns. We need two equations.

 

We see "the sum of the two rates is $170 per hour." OK! That is an equation.

 

Let x by the first rate of pay, y be the second.

 

x + y = 170

 

Now what do we have for the second equation? Hmm. We have a total of 1500, that goes on the right side. What goes on the left? How about the rate x time for each mechanic?

 

5x + 15y = 1500

 

To solve, you isolate either x or y in the first equation (because it's easier) and plug that expression in the second expression. Go ahead and try it!