Question 141295

How do i solve using a system of two equations in two variables? <BR>
Adam is 5 years younger than Eve. In one year, Eve will be 3 times as old as Adam was 4 years ago. Find their ages now?<BR>
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Adam is 5 years younger than Eve.<BR>
<PRE>
That says:
A is 5 less than E or

A = E take away 5

A = E - 5
</PRE><BR>
>>...In one year, Eve will be 3 times as old as Adam was 4 years ago...<<<BR>
<pre><BR>
That says:
<BR>

If we add 1 to E we'll get 3 times A take away 4
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or
<BR>

E plus 1 equals 3 times A-4
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E+1 = 3(A - 4)
<BR>

So we have the system of equations:
<BR>

E+1 = 3(A - 4)<BR>
A = E - 5
<BR>

Can you solve that system by substitution?  If not<BR>
post again asking how.
<BR>

Answer: E = 14, A = 9