The Cost of State Fair Rides

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 99 views

Introduction

The state fair is a popular event where people gather to enjoy various rides, games, and food. However, to participate in these activities, one must first pay the entrance fee. In this scenario, Michael pays a fixed amount of $30 to enter the state fair, plus an additional $4 for each ride he chooses to take. The question arises: which equation represents Michael's total cost? In this article, we will delve into the world of mathematics and explore the correct equation that represents Michael's total cost.

The Cost of State Fair Rides

Let's break down the cost of state fair rides. Michael pays a fixed amount of $30 to enter the state fair. This is a one-time payment, and it does not depend on the number of rides he takes. However, for each ride he chooses to take, he pays an additional $4. This means that the cost of each ride is $4, and the number of rides he takes is represented by the variable x.

Representing the Cost with an Equation

To represent Michael's total cost, we need to create an equation that takes into account the fixed entrance fee and the cost of each ride. Let's use the variable y to represent the total cost. We know that the fixed entrance fee is $30, and the cost of each ride is $4. Since Michael takes x rides, the total cost can be represented as:

y = 30 + 4x

This equation states that the total cost (y) is equal to the fixed entrance fee ($30) plus the cost of each ride (4x). However, we need to consider the order of operations. When we add 30 and 4x, we need to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Multiply 4 and x: 4x
Add 30 to the result: 30 + 4x

Therefore, the correct equation is:

y = 30 + 4x

Comparing the Options

Now that we have the correct equation, let's compare it with the given options:

A. y = 30x + 4 B. y = 34x C. y = 4x + 34 D. y = 30 + 4x

Option A is incorrect because it multiplies the fixed entrance fee ($30) by the number of rides (x), which is not the correct representation of the cost.

Option B is incorrect because it ignores the fixed entrance fee and only considers the cost of each ride.

Option C is incorrect because it adds the cost of each ride (4x) to the fixed entrance fee ($30), but it does not follow the order of operations.

Option D is the correct equation, which represents Michael's total cost as the fixed entrance fee ($30) plus the cost of each ride (4x).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct equation that represents Michael's total cost is:

y = 30 + 4x

Q: What is the fixed entrance fee for the state fair?

A: The fixed entrance fee for the state fair is $30.

Q: How much does each ride cost?

A: Each ride costs $4.

Q: What is the total cost of taking x rides?

A: The total cost of taking x rides is represented by the equation y = 30 + 4x.

Q: Why is the equation y = 30 + 4x correct?

A: The equation y = 30 + 4x is correct because it takes into account the fixed entrance fee ($30) and the cost of each ride ($4). The variable x represents the number of rides taken.

Q: What is the order of operations in the equation y = 30 + 4x?

A: The order of operations in the equation y = 30 + 4x is:

Multiply 4 and x: 4x
Add 30 to the result: 30 + 4x

Q: Why is option A (y = 30x + 4) incorrect?

A: Option A (y = 30x + 4) is incorrect because it multiplies the fixed entrance fee ($30) by the number of rides (x), which is not the correct representation of the cost.

Q: Why is option B (y = 34x) incorrect?

A: Option B (y = 34x) is incorrect because it ignores the fixed entrance fee and only considers the cost of each ride.

Q: Why is option C (y = 4x + 34) incorrect?

A: Option C (y = 4x + 34) is incorrect because it adds the cost of each ride (4x) to the fixed entrance fee ($30), but it does not follow the order of operations.

Q: How can I use the equation y = 30 + 4x in real-life situations?

A: You can use the equation y = 30 + 4x in real-life situations such as:

Calculating the total cost of taking a certain number of rides at the state fair
Determining the cost of a certain number of rides at an amusement park
Creating a budget for a trip to a theme park

Q: What are some tips for using the equation y = 30 + 4x?

A: Some tips for using the equation y = 30 + 4x include:

Make sure to understand the variables and constants in the equation
Use the correct order of operations
Check your calculations to ensure accuracy
Use the equation to calculate the total cost of taking a certain number of rides

Conclusion

In conclusion, the equation y = 30 + 4x is a useful tool for calculating the total cost of taking a certain number of rides at the state fair. By understanding the variables and constants in the equation, using the correct order of operations, and checking your calculations, you can use this equation to make informed decisions about your budget and expenses.