Question

which equation represents the cost, y, of x gallons of gasoline? a. y = 3.25x b. y = 3.25 + x c. y = 0.31x d. y = 0.31 + x

Explanation:

Step1: Understand the problem

We need to find the equation that represents the cost \( y \) of \( x \) gallons of gasoline. The cost of gasoline is typically calculated as the price per gallon multiplied by the number of gallons. So, if the price per gallon is \( p \), then the cost \( y = p \times x \).

Step2: Analyze the options

• Option A: \( y = 3.25x \) suggests that the price per gallon is \( 3.25 \), which is a reasonable price for gasoline.
• Option B: \( y = 3.25 + x \) would mean the cost is a fixed \( 3.25 \) plus the number of gallons, which doesn't make sense for gasoline pricing (it should be price per gallon times gallons).
• Option C: \( y = 0.31x \) would mean the price per gallon is \( 0.31 \), which is too low for gasoline.
• Option D: \( y = 0.31 + x \) also doesn't follow the correct pricing model (fixed amount plus gallons, not price per gallon times gallons).

Answer:

A. \( y = 3.25x \)