Question 24478
Let x represent the number of apples 
Let y represent the number of pears 
Total = 8


x+y=8
y=8-x


Cost of apples = $1.50
Cost of pears = $2.30
Total cost = $14 


1.50x+2.30y=14 (subsitute)
1.50x+2.30(8-x)=14
1.50x+18.40-2.30x=14
-0.8x =-4.4 Divide both sides by -0.8
x = 5.5 


y=8-5.5
y=2.5


Hence there were 2.5 pounds of pears and 5.5 pounds of apples.
Check. $1.50(5.5)+$2.3(2.5)=$14
Paul.