<PRE><B>Question 1204169</B>
&lt;br&gt;
I very much disagree with the other tutor when he says solving a problem like this is easier with two unknowns than with one.&lt;br&gt;
Compare the algebra required to solve the problem with his solution using two unknowns to that required in the solution below using one unknown.&lt;br&gt;
Using the information that 5 years ago Bill&#39;s age was 3 times Jane&#39;s age....&lt;br&gt;
Let x = Jane&#39;s age 5 years ago
Then 3x = Bill&#39;s age 5 years ago&lt;br&gt;
Then their ages now are x+5 and 3x+5.&lt;br&gt;
Bill&#39;s age now is 1 less than twice Jane&#39;s age now:&lt;br&gt;
{{{3x+5=2(x+5)-1}}}
{{{3x+5=2x+9}}}
{{{x=4}}}&lt;br&gt;
Their ages 5 years ago were x=4 and 3x=12.&lt;br&gt;
Their ages now are 4+5=9 and 12+5=17.&lt;br&gt;
ANSWER: Bill&#39;s age now is 17&lt;br&gt;
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