What is the hourly rate for a second year if it is $19.50/hr and represents 75% of a journeyman's rate?

• A. $24/hr
• B. $25/hr
• C. $26/hr
• D. $27/hr

Answer: (C)

To determine the journeyman's hourly rate based on the information provided, you can set up an equation where the second-year rate of $19.50 represents 75% of the journeyman's rate.

Let’s denote the journeyman's hourly rate as "J." According to the question, 75% of J is equal to $19.50, which can be expressed mathematically as:

0.75 * J = $19.50

To find J, divide both sides of the equation by 0.75:

J = $19.50 / 0.75

Calculating this gives:

J = $26.00

This reveals that the journeyman's hourly rate is $26.00, which corresponds to the choice that states the correct hourly rate. Therefore, the answer is correct as it directly relates to the calculation based on the percentage of the journeyman's wage that the second-year rate represents.

Understanding this calculation is crucial as it not only provides the correct answer but also reinforces the concept of how apprenticeship wages are typically structured relative to a journeyman's pay.