Let's define the variables:
- Let \( s \) be the number of pounds of strawberries.
- Since Wendell wants 4 times as much melon as strawberries, the number of pounds of melon will be \( 4s \).
Now, let's set up the cost equation based on the prices:
- The cost of strawberries is \( 1.65s \) dollars.
- The cost of melon is \( 0.45 \times 4s = 1.80s \) dollars.
The total cost equation becomes:
\[ 1.65s + 1.80s = 10.50 \]
Combining like terms gives:
\[ 3.45s = 10.50 \]
Now, we can solve for \( s \):
\[ s = \frac{10.50}{3.45} \approx 3.04 \]
Since Wendell needs whole pounds, we can round \( s \) to the nearest whole number, which is 3. So he should buy approximately 3 pounds of strawberries.
Next, we can calculate the amount of melon:
\[ \text{Pounds of melon} = 4s = 4 \times 3 = 12 \text{ pounds} \]
Now, let’s check the total cost:
- Cost of strawberries: \( 3 \times 1.65 = 4.95 \) dollars.
- Cost of melon: \( 12 \times 0.45 = 5.40 \) dollars.
- Total cost: \( 4.95 + 5.40 = 10.35 \) dollars, which is less than $10.50 but still within budget.
So, the most reasonable whole number solution based on the options provided is as follows:
Wendell should buy 12 pounds of melon and 3 pounds of strawberries.