Question 609337: James is now half as old as Jim was six years ago. Three years ago ,Jim was three times as old as James. In six years Jim will be twice as old as James will be then.How old are they?
Answer by stanbon(75887)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! James is now half as old as Jim was six years ago. Three years ago ,Jim was three times as old as James. In six years Jim will be twice as old as James will be then.How old are they?
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Equations:
a = (1/2)(m-6)
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m-3 = 3(a-3)
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m+6 = 2(a+6)
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Note: It's unusual to have three equation statements. Let's see
if they are consistent.
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Using the 1st 2 equations:
Substitute for "a" and solve for "m":
m-3 = 3((1/2)m -3 -3)
m - 3 = 3((1/2)m - 6)
m - 3 = (3/2)m -18
(1/2)m = 15
m = 30 (Jim's age now)
Solve for "a":
a = (1/2)(m-6)
a = (1/2)(30-6)
a = (1/2)*24
a = 12 (Jame's age now)
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Now, let's see if those values satisfy the 3rd equation:
m+6 = 2(a+6)
30+6 = 2(12+6)
36 = 2*18
36 = 36
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OK; the 3 equations are consistent.
James is 12 and Jim is 30
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Cheers,
Stan H.
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