SOLUTION: The questions is: "If Leah is 6 years older than Sue, and John is 5 years older than Leah, and their total age is 41. Then how old is Sue?" I have tried averaging their ages a

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Age -> SOLUTION: The questions is: "If Leah is 6 years older than Sue, and John is 5 years older than Leah, and their total age is 41. Then how old is Sue?" I have tried averaging their ages a      Log On

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Question 331128: The questions is: "If Leah is 6 years older than Sue, and John is 5 years older than Leah, and their total age is 41. Then how old is Sue?"
I have tried averaging their ages and I attempted to set up an equation, but I know it isn't correct. I know the answer is 8 from my answer key, but I can not figure out how to get that. Can you please work the problem for me step by step so I can see how to get the answer and use it as an example towards other problems I am working.
As soon as possible would be awesome b/c my test is tomorrow. I just found this website or I wouldn't have waited so long. Thanks so Much!!!!
Answer by Ruli(21) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Sue = x
Leah = (x+6)
John = (x+6+5)
x + (x+6) + (x+6+5) = 41
x + x + 6 + x + 11 = 41
3x + 17 - 17 = 41 - 17
3x = 24
x = 8
Sue is 8 yrs old
check:
8+(8+6)+(8+6+5)=41
8+(14)+(19)=41
41 = 41