Let's solve this problem step-by-step:
1. Determine the total amount spent by James:
- James started with R145 and ended with R15 left.
- Therefore, the total amount spent is:
[tex]\[
145 - 15 = R130
\][/tex]
2. Calculate the cost of the 3 cards:
- Each card costs R25.
- For 3 cards, the total cost is:
[tex]\[
3 \times 25 = R75
\][/tex]
3. Determine the amount spent on stamps:
- The total amount spent was R130 and the cost of the cards was R75.
- Therefore, the amount spent on stamps is:
[tex]\[
130 - 75 = R55
\][/tex]
4. Calculate the number of stamps bought:
- Each stamp costs R5.
- The number of stamps bought with R55 is:
[tex]\[
55 \div 5 = 11
\][/tex]
Thus, James bought 11 stamps.
