Without solving, choose the correct solution by deciding which choice satisfies the given conditions.
-Zacharias has a total of 61 coins, all of which are either dimes or nickels. The total value of the coins is $5.45. Find the number of each type of coin.
A)48 nickels; 13 dimes
B)13 nickels; 48 dimes
C)18 nickels; 43 dimes
D)15 nickels; 46 dimes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total value of the coins is $5.45, which equals 545 cents. Since each nickel is worth 5 cents and each dime is worth 10 cents, we can set up the equation 5n + 10d = 545, where n is the number of nickels and d is the number of dimes. Additionally, we know that n + d = 61. Solving these equations or checking the options, option B (13 nickels and 48 dimes) is the only one that satisfies both the total number of coins and the total value: 13*5 + 48*10 = 65 + 480 = 545 cents or $5.45.

Without Solving, Choose the Correct Solution by Deciding Which Choice