Mike took a taxi from his home to the airport. the taxi driver charged an initial fee of $6 plus $3 per mile. the total fare was $24 not icluding the tip. how many miles did mike travel by taxi on this ride

Solution using an equation:

cost = fixed fee + fee per mile

cost = $24
fixed fee = $6
fee per mile = 3x for x miles

24 = 6 + 3x

6 + 3x = 24

3x = 18

x = 6

Mike traveled 6 miles.

Solution without equation:

He spent $24.

$6 is for the initial fee, so he spent $24 - $6 = $18 on the miles.

$18/($3/mile) = 6 miles

Mike traveled 6 miles.