Let \( p \) be the number of petunias and \( b \) be the number of begonias. We can set up the following system of equations based on the information given:
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The total number of plants: \[ p + b = 19 \]
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The total cost of the plants: \[ 11p + 15b = 225 \]
Now, we can solve these equations step by step.
From the first equation, we can express \( b \) in terms of \( p \): \[ b = 19 - p \]
Next, we substitute this expression for \( b \) into the second equation: \[ 11p + 15(19 - p) = 225 \]
Now, distribute the 15: \[ 11p + 285 - 15p = 225 \]
Combine like terms: \[ -4p + 285 = 225 \]
Now, subtract 285 from both sides: \[ -4p = 225 - 285 \] \[ -4p = -60 \]
Divide by -4: \[ p = 15 \]
Now that we have \( p \), we can find \( b \): \[ b = 19 - p = 19 - 15 = 4 \]
So, Jim bought 15 petunias and 4 begonias.
Therefore, the correct statement is: Jim bought 15 petunias.