To answer this question you will set up a system of equations to represent each scenario. Â Solve for one variable and substitute that in to the other equation to find the missing value. Â This example will have you solving for p, the price of popcorn.
4p + 3s = 13.50 Â Â and 2p + 5s = 12
2p + 5s = 12
   -2p   -2p
5s = 12 - 2p
5 Â Â Â Â 5
s = 2.4 - 0.4p
4p + 3s = 13.50Â
4p + 3(2.4 - 0.4p) = 13.50
4p +7.2 - 1.2p = 13.5
 2.8p +7.2 = 13.5
    -7.2    -7.2Â
  2.8p = 6.3
  2.8    2.8
  p = 2.25
The price of popcorn is 2.25 and the soda is (2.4 - 0.4 x 2.25) $1.50.
5 popcorn and 2 sodas will cost (2.25 x 5 + 1.50 x 2) = $14.25.