Example

Example: Solving a Utility Bill Problem with a Linear Inequality

To determine the maximum usage allowed to keep a utility bill under a specific limit, formulate and solve a linear inequality. For example, if a heating bill has a fixed monthly charge of $5.42 plus $1.08 per therm, and the maximum bill is $87.50, let tt be the number of therms used. The inequality is 5.42+1.08t87.505.42 + 1.08t \leq 87.50. Subtracting 5.425.42 gives 1.08t82.081.08t \leq 82.08. Dividing by 1.081.08 yields t76t \leq 76. Thus, a maximum of 76 therms can be used.

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Updated 2026-04-22

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Ch.2 Solving Linear Equations - Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax

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