Question

The graph below shows the number of words Wilma types as a function of time.



If Betty types five more words each minute than Wilma does, which equation represents the total words, w , that Betty types in m minutes?
w = 5m
w = 15m
w = 25m
w = 100m

Answer 1

To determine the equation that represents the total words \( w \) that Betty types in \( m \) minutes, we need to establish Wilma's typing rate.

From your description, it seems that Betty types 5 more words each minute than Wilma. If we assume that Wilma types \( r \) words per minute, then Betty would type \( r + 5 \) words per minute.

Therefore, the equation for Betty's total typing for \( m \) minutes can be described as follows:

\[
w = (r + 5)m
\]

To find which equation fits from the choices provided—\( w = 5m \), \( w = 15m \), \( w = 25m \), and \( w = 100m \)—we need to choose one where \( r + 5 \) is clearly identifiable.

Without knowing Wilma's specific rate \( r \), let's assume some possibilities:

1. If \( r = 0 \), then \( w = 5m \).
2. If \( r = 10 \), then \( w = (10 + 5)m = 15m \).
3. If \( r = 20 \), then \( w = (20 + 5)m = 25m \).
4. If \( r = 95 \), then \( w = (95 + 5)m = 100m \).

Without additional information about Wilma's typing speed, we cannot conclude definitively which equation represents Betty's total words. However, we find that:

- If Wilma types at 10 words per minute, then Betty would type \( 15m \).
- If Wilma types at 20 words per minute, Betty would type \( 25m \).
- If Wilma types at 95 words per minute, then Betty would type \( 100m \).

So, depending on Wilma's typing rate, any one of those equations could potentially be correct. If you've noticed specific numbers from the graph that indicate Wilma's rate, you could plug those in to find the precise answer.

If you have that rate from the graph, please provide it for exact calculation. If not, all four options could represent valid equations depending on Wilma's speed.