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?

Question

Balloon Express; $5
Balloon Express; $5

Balloon Express; $25
Balloon Express; $25

Balloon Mania; $25 
Balloon Mania; $25 

Balloon Mania; $5

Answer 1

Let's use the following variables:
x = number of balloons
y = total cost

From the information given, we can set up the following system of equations:

For Balloon Express:
2x + 10 = y

For Balloon Mania:
1.5x + 20 = y

We know that the O’Donnells plan to order 30 balloons, so we can substitute x = 30 into both equations:

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

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

Therefore, they should choose Balloon Mania as it will cost them $65 compared to $70 with Balloon Express. They will save $5 by choosing Balloon Mania.