Question 1203110
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Look at the responses from the other two tutors who provided formal algebraic solutions to see that it is almost always the case that a tiny bit of extra work at the beginning to set the problem up using only one variable results in a faster and easier path to the solution.<br>
And if formal algebra is not required, this is a very common type of problem that can be solved quickly and easily using logical reasoning and simple arithmetic:<br>
If all 61 vehicles had been cars, the total raised would have been 61($4) = $244.
The actual total was $278, which is $34 more.
The difference between the cost for a car and the cost for a van was $2.
Therefore, the number of vans was $34/$2 = 17.<br>
ANSWER: 17 vans and 61-17 = 44 cars<br>