Vivian purchased the newest version of a smartphone for $519.99 through a nationwide product distributor
Consider the following:
Vivian purchased the newest version of a smartphone for $519.99 through a nationwide product distributor. Before making the purchase, she found an electronic coupon that allowed her to take 15% off of the purchase price. At the time of online “check-out” she redeemed her coupon. Following this redemption, a 5% shipping charge was added to the final cost.
Vivian wondered: “What if the online company had charged shipping first, and then allowed me to redeem my coupon? Since the 15% coupon would be applied to a higher cost, wouldn’t I pay less?”
- First guess. Do you think Vivian is correct? Why?
- Then, calculate. Now how would you respond to Vivian’s question? Support your answer with a detailed mathematical explanation.
- How do these results compare with the problem you solved in the discussion activity? Explain.