Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics (5733)Algebra and FunctionsEasy
A technician charges a flat fee of $50 for a service call plus $35 per hour for labor. If the total cost of a service call was $190, how many hours did the technician work?
- A4 hours
- B5 hours
- C3 hours
- D6 hours
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 4 hours
This problem can be solved by setting up a linear equation. Let 'h' be the number of hours worked. The total cost is represented by 50 + 35h = 190. Solving for 'h' will give the number of hours.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect. 50 + 35(5) = 50 + 175 = 225, which is not $190.
- C. Incorrect. 50 + 35(3) = 50 + 105 = 155, which is not $190.
- D. Incorrect. This is too high and indicates a calculation error or misunderstanding of the equation structure.
Linear Equations
An algebraic equation in which each term has an exponent of 1, resulting in a straight line when graphed.
- Can be written as Ax + By = C or y = mx + b.
- Used to model situations with a constant rate of change.
- Solving involves isolating the variable.
Memory trick: Isolate the variable, balance the equation, find the value.