SOLUTION: The difference in the ages of two boys is 4 years. The sum of their ages is 14.Find their ages.

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Question 1118458: The difference in the ages of two boys is 4 years. The sum of their ages is 14.Find their ages.
Found 2 solutions by ikleyn, EstelJordan:
Answer by ikleyn(52775) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
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One solution

x + y = 14
x - y =  4
-----------------------Add the two equations. You will get

2x = 14 + 4 = 18  ====>  x = 18/2 = 9.


Answer.  9 years and 14-9 = 5 years.


Another way

x + (x-4) = 14

2x - 4 = 14

2x = 14 + 4 = 18  ====>  x = 18/2 = 9,   and you get the same answer.  


Answer by EstelJordan(1) About Me  (Show Source):