1. **State the problem:** We want to find the number of years $x$ it will take for Jerry and Victoria to earn the same salary given their starting salaries and annual increases. 2. **Define variables and write expressions:** - Jerry's salary after $x$ years: $45,000 + 2,500x$ - Victoria's salary after $x$ years: $54,000 + 1,500x$ 3. **Set up the equation:** To find when their salaries are equal, set Jerry's salary equal to Victoria's salary: $$45,000 + 2,500x = 54,000 + 1,500x$$ 4. **Explanation:** - The starting salaries are constants. - The increases are multiplied by $x$ because they happen each year. - The equation balances the two salary expressions to find $x$. 5. **Answer:** The correct equation is option c: $45,000 + 2,500x = 54,000 + 1,500x$.