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AlgebraMediumComparing two linear models

Algebra practice question

Gym A charges a $50 joining fee plus $20 per month. Gym B charges no joining fee and $30 per month. After how many months will the total cost of the two gyms be the same?

  1. A. 5Correct
  2. B. 2.5
  3. C. 10
  4. D. 50

Answer: A. 5

50 + 20m = 30m gives 50 = 10m, m = 5.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 2.5
2.5 divides 50 by 20, using only Gym A's rate.
C. 10
10 divides 50 by 5 or a similar slip; the difference in rates is 10 per month, so 50/10 = 5.
D. 50
50 is the joining fee, not a number of months.

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