1. **Problem 1: Calculate the number of communication channels in a team of 5 people (Rachel + 4 staff members).** The formula for the number of communication channels in a group of $n$ people is: $$\frac{n(n-1)}{2}$$ Here, $n = 5$ (4 staff + Rachel). 2. Substitute $n=5$ into the formula: $$\frac{5(5-1)}{2} = \frac{5 \times 4}{2} = \frac{20}{2} = 10$$ 3. So, the number of communication channels required is 10. --- 4. **Problem 2: Find the current actual cost for the project after 50 days.** Given: - Total budget = 10,000 - Time passed = 50 days - Amount spent = 7,000 - Work completed = 60% 5. The current actual cost is the amount spent so far, which is 7,000. --- **Final answers:** - Problem 1: 10 communication channels - Problem 2: Actual cost is 7,000