Question

type the correct answer in each box. use numerals instead of words.
micah is keeping track of how much he spends this month on gas. in the first week, he bought x gallons of gas at $2.39 per gallon; in the second week, he bought 3 fewer gallons of gas than the first week at $2.49 per gallon. so far this month, he has spent a total $46.21 on gas.

in the first week, micah bought □ gallons of gas.

in the second week, micah bought □ gallons of gas.

Explanation:

Step1: Define variables and set up equation

Let \( x \) be the gallons bought in the first week. Then the second week he bought \( x - 3 \) gallons. The cost for the first week is \( 2.39x \), and for the second week is \( 2.49(x - 3) \). The total cost is \( 46.21 \), so the equation is \( 2.39x + 2.49(x - 3) = 46.21 \).

Step2: Expand and simplify the equation

Expand the second term: \( 2.39x + 2.49x - 7.47 = 46.21 \). Combine like terms: \( (2.39 + 2.49)x - 7.47 = 46.21 \), so \( 4.88x - 7.47 = 46.21 \).

Step3: Solve for \( x \)

Add \( 7.47 \) to both sides: \( 4.88x = 46.21 + 7.47 = 53.68 \). Then divide both sides by \( 4.88 \): \( x = \frac{53.68}{4.88} = 11 \).

Step4: Find gallons for the second week

Subtract 3 from \( x \): \( 11 - 3 = 8 \).

Answer:

In the first week, Micah bought \( \boldsymbol{11} \) gallons of gas.
In the second week, Micah bought \( \boldsymbol{8} \) gallons of gas.