SOLUTION: You plant a 14-inch hemlock tree in your backyard that grows at a rate of 4 inches a year and an 8-inch spruce tree that grows 6 inches a year. In how many years after you plant th

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: You plant a 14-inch hemlock tree in your backyard that grows at a rate of 4 inches a year and an 8-inch spruce tree that grows 6 inches a year. In how many years after you plant th      Log On


   

Question 885077: You plant a 14-inch hemlock tree in your backyard that grows at a rate of 4 inches a year and an 8-inch spruce tree that grows 6 inches a year. In how many years after you plant the trees will they be the same height? How tall will they be?
So far I have little equations that will help me solve this problem but I don't necessarily know what to do with them.
14 + 4y = height of the hemlock
8 + 6y = height of the spruce
It is preferred that they are solved in standard form. Thank's for your help.
Answer by richwmiller(17219) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
since the two trees will be the same height set the two equal to one another
14 + 4y = 8 + 6y
6=2y
3=y 3 years
check
14+12=8+18
26=26
26 inches