SOLUTION: I need help turning this word problem into an algebra problem. The bus fare in a city is $1.50. People who use the bus have the option of purchasing a monthly coupon book for $21.

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Question 560240: I need help turning this word problem into an algebra problem.
The bus fare in a city is $1.50. People who use the bus have the option of purchasing a monthly coupon book for $21.00. With the coupon book, the fare is reduced to $0.50. Determine the number of times in a month the bus must be used so that the total monthly cost without the coupon book is the same as the total monthly cost with the coupon book.

Answer by rapaljer(4671) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let x = number of bus fares.

Cost of fares without coupon book = 1.50x
Cost of fares WITH coupon book = .50x + 21

1.50x = .50x+21

To solve the equation, subtract .50x from each side of the equation:
1.50x -.50x = .50x-.50x + 21
1.00x = 21
x= 21 fares

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