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?

Responses

Balloon Express; $25
Balloon Express; $25

Balloon Express; $5
Balloon Express; $5

Balloon Mania; $25 
Balloon Mania; $25 

Balloon Mania; $5

1 answer

Let x be the number of balloons ordered from Balloon Express and y be the number of balloons ordered from Balloon Mania.

We can create a system of equations:
2x + 10 = 30 (Cost of Balloon Express)
1.50y + 20 = 30 (Cost of Balloon Mania)

Solving these equations, we find:
2x = 20
x = 10 balloons
y = 20 balloons

The total cost for Balloon Express would be 2(10) + 10 = $30
The total cost for Balloon Mania would be 1.50(20) + 20 = $50

Therefore, the O'Donnells should choose Balloon Express, and they would save $20 by choosing them. The correct response is:
Balloon Express; $20