4

Set 2: Systems of Equations

Explanation

Answer: B

Jessica splits $15,000 between two investments. One pays 5% annually, the other 8% annually. After one year, total interest is $990. How much was invested at 5%?

A.

\6,000$

B.

\7,000$

✓ Correct
C.

\8,000$

D.

\9,000$

Detailed Explanation

Choice B is correct. Choice B is the correct answer. Let xx = amount at 5% and yy = amount at 8%. System: {x+y=150000.05x+0.08y=990\begin{cases} x + y = 15000 \\ 0.05 x + 0.08 y = 990 \end{cases} Step 1: From first: y=15000xy = 15000 - x Step 2: Substitute: $$$0.05x + 0.08(15000 - x) = 9900.05x + 1200 - 0.08 x = 990$-0.03 x = -210x = 7000 Solution: $7,000 at 5% (and $8,000 at 8%) Verification: 0.05(7000)+0.08(8000)=350+640=9900.05(7000) + 0.08(8000) = 350 + 640 = 990 ✓ Strategic Tip: Investment problems: Principal × Rate = Interest. Other choices fail verification.

Key Steps:

The correct answer is \7,000$

Why others are wrong:
A: Choice A is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
C: Choice C is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
D: Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

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