SOLUTION: Hello! I'm stuck on this word problem and would appreciate if you could help me find 2 linear equations to help solve the following word problem: The SBC yellow pages identifies

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Question 399836: Hello! I'm stuck on this word problem and would appreciate if you could help me find 2 linear equations to help solve the following word problem:
The SBC yellow pages identifies two different local electrical businesses; Jones' charges $50 for a service call, plus an additional $39 per hour for labor, and Phenso charges $32 for a service call, plus an additional $45 per hour for labor. Write a system of equations and find the length of service where both companies would charge the same amount. I your electrical problem would take 4 hours to complete who would be the best choice to use?
I've tried but my confusion only grew worse. I ask to please help me solve this and how. :/

Answer by Earlsdon(6294) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let C%5Bj%5D = the total charged by Jones.
Let C%5Bp%5D = the total charge by Phenso.
h = number of hours.
C%5Bj%5D+=+50%2B39h "Jones' charges $50 for a service call plus an additional $39 per hour for labor,"
C%5Bp%5D+=+32%2B45h "...and Phenso charges $32 for a service call plus an additional $45 per hour for labor."
If both companies were to charge the same, then C%5Bj%5D+=+C%5Bp%5D so...
50%2B39h+=+32%2B45h Solve for h. Subtract 32 from both sides.
18%2B39h+=+45h Subtract 39h from both sides.
18+=+6h Finally, divide by 6.
h+=+3hours.
If h=4, then:
C%5Bj%5D+=+50%2B39%284%29
C%5Bj%5D+=+50%2B156
C%5Bj%5D+=+206dollars. and...
C%5Bp%5D+=+32%2B45%284%29
C%5Bp%5D+=+32%2B180
C%5Bp%5D+=+212dollars.
Jones' electric would be the best (cheapest) choice at $206 for 4 hours.