Question 998984
.
A plumber makes $4.50 per hour {{{highlight(more)}}} than his apprentice. During an 8-hour day their earnings total $284. How much does each make per hour?
-----------------------------------------------------------------

<pre>
Let x and y be the earnings of a plumber and his apprentice per day (per 8-hour working day).

Then we have the system of two linear equation in two unknowns

x + y = 284,

x - y = 8*4.50 = 36.

Add both equations. You will get

2x = 284 + 36 = 320. Hence, x = {{{320/2}}} = 160.

Then y = 284 - 160 = 124.

Thus the plumber makes {{{160/8}}} = $20 per hour. 

The apprentice makes {{{124/8}}} = $15.50 per hour.
</pre>