SOLUTION: How do I express this word problem in algebra? Brenda is three years older than Ken. If the product of their ages is 180, how old are they? I know that by trial and error, th

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Age -> SOLUTION: How do I express this word problem in algebra? Brenda is three years older than Ken. If the product of their ages is 180, how old are they? I know that by trial and error, th      Log On

Ad: Over 600 Algebra Word Problems at edhelper.com


    

Question 187899: How do I express this word problem in algebra?
Brenda is three years older than Ken. If the product of their ages is 180, how old are they?
I know that by trial and error, the answer is 15 and 12 but I am completely stumped in trying to express this algebraically. I have tried using linear and simultaneous methods to no avail. Please help me!

Answer by jojo14344(1513) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Let x=Ken's Age
So, x+3= Brenda's Age

Condition: Ken's Age x Brenda's Age = 180
(x)(x+3)=180
x^2+3x-180=0
(x+15)(x-12)=0
x=-15, discard & x=12, Ken's Age
3+12=15, Brenda's Age

Thank you,
Jojo