Which is the better buy ? A \(17\) ounce can of tomatoes for \(\$\) \(2.49\), a \(26\) ounce can of tomatoes for \(2.89\) or a \(33\) ounce can of tomatoes for \(\$3.19\). Show your work to prove your answer.

Solution:

To solve this question we can take various approach but here we are taking the unit price approach and compare their price to determine which is the better buy

\(17\) ounce can costs \(=\) \(\$\) \(2.49\)

therefor, \(1\) ounce can costs \(=\)\(\frac{2.49}{17}\)

\(=\) \(\$\)\(0.146\) per ounce

\(26\) ounce can costs \(=\) \(\$2.89\)

therefore, \(1\) ounce can costs \(=\) \(\frac{2.89}{26}\)

\(=\)\(0.11\)

Now, \(33\) ounce can of tomatoes costs \(=\) \(\$2.89\)

and, \(1\) ounce can of tomatoes costs \(=\) \(\frac{3.19}{33}\)

\(=\)\(\$0.0966\)

Therefore, it may be inferred that the \(33\)-ounce can of tomatoes, which costs \(\$3.19\), is significantly less expensive than others. Therefore, a \(33\) ounce can of tomatoes for \(\$3.19\) is a better deal.