Question 254227
Let s=cost of skirt, b=cost of blouse



Since "A skirt and a blouse together cost $75", we know that {{{s+b=75}}}. Also, because "The skirt costs $15 more than the blouse", we can say that {{{s=b+15}}}


 
{{{s+b=75}}} Start with the first equation.



{{{b+15+b=75}}} Plug in {{{s=b+15}}}



{{{2b+15=75}}} Combine like terms on the left side.



{{{2b=75-15}}} Subtract {{{15}}} from both sides.



{{{2b=60}}} Combine like terms on the right side.



{{{b=(60)/(2)}}} Divide both sides by {{{2}}} to isolate {{{b}}}.



{{{b=30}}} Reduce.



{{{s=b+15}}} Go back to the second equation.



{{{s=30+15}}} Plug in {{{b=30}}}



{{{s=45}}} Add



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Answer:


So the solutions are {{{b=30}}} and {{{s=45}}} which means that the blouse costs $30 and the skirt costs $45



Take note that the skirt is $15 more than the blouse and that 30+45=75. So our answer is verified.