Question 1068186: The combined ages of Jane and her mother is 60. In 6 years Jane will be one-half her mother's age. How old are they now? Found 2 solutions by josgarithmetic, ankor@dixie-net.com:Answer by josgarithmetic(39620) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! j = Jane's present age
m = Mom's age
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Write an equation for each statement
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The combined ages of Jane and her mother is 60.
J + M = 60
In 6 years Jane will be one-half her mother's age.
J + 6 = (M+6)
multiply both sides by 2
2(J+6) = M + 6
2J + 12 = M + 6
2J - M = 6 - 12
2J - M - 6
Use elimination here, add to the first equation
2J - M = -6
J + M = 60
-------------Addition eliminates M find J
3J + 0 = 54
j = 54/3
J = 18 yrs is Jane's age
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I'll let you find Mom's age
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Check the solutions in the statement
"In 6 years Jane will be one-half her mother's age. "
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