Final answer:
By setting up equations based on the given relationships and solving them in a series of steps, we can determine that Michael is 13 years old.
Step-by-step explanation:
Let's call Michael's age M and Keanu's age K. According to the problem, Michael is one-third of Keanu's age, so we can write this as M = (1/3)K. Furthermore, we know that the sum of their ages is 52, so M + K = 52. With these two equations, we can determine Michael's age through substitution.
- Since M = (1/3)K, substitute M in the sum equation: (1/3)K + K = 52.
- Combine like terms: (1/3)K + 3/3K = 52, which simplifies to (4/3)K = 52.
- Multiply both sides by 3/4 to solve for K: K = 52 * (3/4), resulting in K = 39.
- Now, substitute K back into the first equation to find M: M = (1/3) * 39 = 13.
Therefore, Michael is 13 years old.