SOLUTION: Please help me solve this word problem. I am having trouble setting up the equations. Thanks: Bill has 2 plants that are known for growing an inch taller each year. The total

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: Please help me solve this word problem. I am having trouble setting up the equations. Thanks: Bill has 2 plants that are known for growing an inch taller each year. The total       Log On


   

Question 722733: Please help me solve this word problem. I am having trouble setting up the equations. Thanks:

Bill has 2 plants that are known for growing an inch taller each year. The total combined height of the plants is 81 inches. 42 years ago, one plant was twice the size as the other plant. How many years has he owned each plant?
Answer by checkley79(3341) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
X+Y=81
X=81-Y
Y=42
(81-42)+42=81
39+42=81
81=81
THUS THE OTHER PLANT WAS PLANTED 39 YEARS AGO.