That answer is correct, 9x + 4 -5y. Only like terms are the x terms and we add 3 and 6 together.
Let x + 1.5 be length of segment above left hand
Let 2x be length of segment below left hand
15 = x + 1.5 + 2x
15 = 3x + 1.5
15 - 1.5 = 3x
13.5 = 3x
13.5/3= 3x/3
4.5 = x
x = 4.5
This is the length above the left hand.
2x must be then 4.5*2 = 9 foot
This is the length below the left hand.
Checking
4.5 + 9 + 1.5 = 15 foot
Adding length below left hand & length of left hand to right hand:
9 + 1.5 = 10.5
The right hand is hence 10.5 foot far up the pole.
I think it’s positive. As it gets heavier, the cost has a positive slope, or increases. I’m not absolutely sure though
Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:
Please see attached picture for full solution.