Solve this real-world problem using a system of equations. The O'Donnells are having a birthday party for their son, and they plan to have a clown bring balloons to the party. Balloon Express charges $2 per balloon and $10

for delivery. Balloon Mania charges $1.50 per balloon and $20 for delivery. If the O'Donnells plan to order 30 balloons, which company should they choose, and how much will they save? (1 point)

A. Balloon Express; $25
B. Balloon Mania; $5
C. Balloon Mania; $25
D. Balloon Express; $5

1 answer

Let's represent the number of balloons as "b" and the cost of delivery as "d".

For Balloon Express, the cost equation would be:
Cost of balloons = 2b
Cost of delivery = 10
Total cost = 2b + 10

For Balloon Mania, the cost equation would be:
Cost of balloons = 1.5b
Cost of delivery = 20
Total cost = 1.5b + 20

Now, we need to find the cost for 30 balloons for each company and compare them.

For Balloon Express:
Total cost = 2(30) + 10
Total cost = 60 + 10
Total cost = 70

For Balloon Mania:
Total cost = 1.5(30) + 20
Total cost = 45 + 20
Total cost = 65

The O'Donnells should choose Balloon Mania since they will save $5 compared to Balloon Express.

Therefore, the correct answer is:
D. Balloon Express; $5