Question

hours worked
what is the solution to this system of equations, and what does it mean to the contractor?
○ the solution (0, 20) tells the contractor the minimum amount that can be charged.
○ the solution (0, 500) tells the contractor the maximum amount that can be charged.
○ the solution (25, 20) tells the contractor the number of hours on a job where the hourly rate is the same for both billing options.
○ the solution (20, 25) tells the contractor the number of hours on a job where the hourly rate is the same for both billing options.

Explanation:

The solution to a system of equations from a graph is the intersection point of the two lines/curves. Here, the horizontal line (one billing option) and the hyperbola (the other billing option) intersect at (25, 20). This point represents the number of hours (x-value, 25) where the total charge (y-value, 20, as an hourly rate equivalent) is the same for both billing methods.

Answer:

The solution (25, 20) tells the contractor the number of hours on a job where the hourly rate is the same for both billing options.