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Module 1 (M1) – Algebra - Graphs in real life

Part of MathsM1: Algebra

Real life graphs

A graph can be used in real life situations to help with working out quantities, often costs.

Example

Question

The graph below shows the cost of buying a pizza with a number of different toppings.

A plotted line graph. The x-axis representing price of a pizza in pounds sterling is numbered 1-6, and the number of toppings represented in the y-axis is numbered 1-7..

Neve wants a pizza with olives, peppers, mushrooms and cheese. How much will this cost?

Solution

Neve chooses four toppings.

Rule across from 4 on the x-axis until you meet the line, and then rule across to find the price.

A plotted line graph. The x-axis representing price of a pizza in pounds sterling is numbered 1-6, and the number of toppings represented in the y-axis is numbered 1-7. A dashed green arrow from 4 from the x-axis is drawn to the line, and then drawn again towards 6 on the y-axis.

Answer

A pizza with four toppings will cost ÂŁ6.00.

Question

Ross spends ÂŁ5.50 on a pizza. How many toppings did he choose?

Solution

Rule across from ÂŁ5.50 from the y-axis until you meet the line, and then rule down to find the number of toppings.

A plotted line graph. The x-axis representing price of a pizza in pounds sterling is numbered 1-6, and the number of toppings represented in the y-axis is numbered 1-7. A dashed green arrow from 5.5 from the y-axis is drawn to the line, and then drawn again towards 3 on the x-axis.

Answer

Ross chose three toppings for his pizza.

More on M1: Algebra

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