Question

Joes age (j) is half Martha’s (m). Combined, their age is 42. What are their ages?

Answer 1

Answer:

Joe is 14.

Martha is 28.

Step-by-step explanation:

Use the variables and information from the question to make equations.

If Joe's age is half Martha's:

(1/2)m = j     OR     2j = m

If their ages combined is 42:

m + j = 42

We can substitute the equation m=2j into equation m + j = 42, replacing "m".

m + j = 42    Substitute m for 2j

2j + j = 42     Combine like terms, terms with same varables

3j = 42     Divide both sides by 3 to isolate j

j = 14       Joe's age

Since j = 14, we can substitute it into equation m=2j to find "m".

m = 2j       Substitute j for 14

m = 2(14)     Simplify

m = 28       Martha's age

Therefore Joe is 14 and Martha is 28.