SOLUTION: Write an equation and solve for the word problem: Rico spent $18.50 to rent a lawn mower. The fee for the first hour was $8. Each additional hour cost $3.50. For how many hours

Question 509606: Write an equation and solve for the word problem: Rico spent $18.50 to rent a lawn mower. The fee for the first hour was $8. Each additional hour cost $3.50. For how many hours did he rent the mower?
I figured out the answer is 4 hours, but what is the equation that goes with this word problem?
Found 3 solutions by solver91311, edjones, oberobic:
Answer by solver91311(24713)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!

Solve for when

John

My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it

Answer by edjones(8007)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
h=hours of rental after the 1st hour.
8+3.5h=18.5
3.5h=10.5
h=3 hours
.
Ed
Answer by oberobic(2304)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
rental is for 'x' hrs
price is 'y'
.
y = 3.5(x-1) + 8
.
y = 3.5x -3.5 + 8
.
y = 3.5x + 4.5
.
He spent 18.50
.
18.50 = 3.5x + 4.5
3.5x = 18.50 -4.5
x = 14/3.5
x = 4
.
check using the facts
hr 1 = 8
hr 2, 3 & 4 = 3.50
3*3.50 = 10.5
8 + 10.5 = 18.5
.
Answer: He rented it for 4 hr.

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