To find the maximum cost each pair of athletic shorts can be, we need to set up an inequality based on the information given.
Here are the steps to determine the correct inequality:
1. Identify the Variables:
- Let [tex]\( s \)[/tex] be the cost of each pair of athletic shorts.
- The coach wants to buy 15 pairs of shorts.
- The total budget must be less than [tex]$200.
2. Set Up the Inequality:
- The total cost for 15 pairs of shorts would be \( 15 \times s \).
3. Formulate the Condition:
- This total cost must be less than $[/tex]200.
- Therefore, the inequality should be:
[tex]\[
15s < 200
\][/tex]
4. Interpret the Inequality:
- This inequality means that the product of 15 pairs of shorts and the price per pair ([tex]\( s \)[/tex]) must remain beneath the $200 budget constraint.
From the given options, the inequality that represents this situation correctly is:
[tex]\[
15s < 200
\][/tex]
So, the correct choice is:
[tex]\[
\boxed{15s < 200}
\][/tex]
