Problem Solving

A merchant gets a 5% discount on each meter of fabric he buys after the first 2,000 meters and a 7% discount on every meter after the next 1,500 meters. The price, before discount, of one meter of fabric is $2, what is the total amount of money the merchant spends on 4,500 meters of fabric?

A. $8,617
B. $8,710
C. $8,810
D. $8,835
E. $8,915

The OA is the option B.

How should I make the calculations to solve this PS question? Experts, may you help me? Thanks in advanced.

Hi vjesus12.

Let's take a look at your question.

For the first 2000 meters, there is no discount. Hence the cost is $2*2000 = $4000.

For the next 1500 meters, there is a discount of 5%. Hence the cost is 2$*(1500)*95% = $3000*95/100 = $2850.

For the next 1000 meters, there is a discount of 7%. Hence, the cost is $2*(1000)*93% = $2000*93/100 = $1860.

Therefore, the total amount spent is $4000 + $2850 + $1860 = $8710.

This is why the correct answer is the option B.

I hope this answer can help you.

I'm available if you'd like a follow-up.

Regards.