To determine how many additional people attended the birthday party, we will start by analyzing the linear function provided: \( b(x) = 100 + 15x \).
In this function:
- \( b(x) \) is the total cost for the party.
- \( 100 \) is the fixed cost for renting the space.
- \( 15x \) represents the variable cost, where \( x \) is the number of people attending (excluding Leslie and Steve).
Leslie received a bill for $550 at the end of the evening. Therefore, we can set up the equation:
\[ 100 + 15x = 550 \]
Next, we'll solve for \( x \):
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Subtract 100 from both sides:
\[ 15x = 550 - 100 \] \[ 15x = 450 \]
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Divide both sides by 15:
\[ x = \frac{450}{15} \] \[ x = 30 \]
This means 30 additional people attended the party. Since Leslie and Steve are not included in this count, the total number of attendees is \( 30 + 2 = 32 \).
Thus, the answer to the number of additional people who attended the birthday party, excluding Leslie and Steve, is 30.