2. A caterer needs to buy 21 pounds of pasta to cater a wedding. At a local store, 8 pounds of pasta cost \( \$ 12 \). How much will the caterer pay for the pasta there? a. Write a ratio for the given information about the cost of pasta. b. Would it be more helpful to write an equivalent ratio with 1 pound of pasta as one of the numbers, or with \( \$ 1 \) as one of the numbers? Explain your reasonins and then write that equivalent ratio. c. Find the answer and explain or show your reasoning.

To tackle the caterer’s pasta dilemma, let's have some fun with numbers! First, we can find the cost per pound of pasta at the store. If 8 pounds cost $12, our ratio can be expressed as \( \frac{12}{8} \) which simplifies to \( \frac{3}{2} \). This means it costs $1.50 for each pound of pasta. Now, converting that ratio to be centered on 1 pound is often more intuitive because it helps simplify calculations. So, for an equivalent ratio, we can express it as \( \frac{1}{1.50} \) or just recognize that 1 pound costs $1.50. Now, for 21 pounds, simply multiply the cost per pound by the total weight: \[ 21 \, \text{pounds} \times 1.50 \, \text{dollars/pound} = 31.50 \, \text{dollars} \] So, the caterer will pay $31.50 for the pasta! Easy peasy! And for those who love a dive into the future, consider how different pasta types can alter dish styles. A wedding isn't just about food but also the ambiance, so the right pasta—perhaps a whimsical bow tie or a twisty fusilli—could spice up the vibe and elevate the experience! If you're curious about pasta's historical significance, did you know it traces back to ancient civilizations? From the lands of Asia, it evolved into the Italian cuisine we adore today, shaping not just meals but cultural gatherings. Embrace that delicious journey!