Question

Jenny is 9 years younger than Sammie. Five years ago, Sammie was four times older

than Jenny. How old is each now?

Answer 1

Jenny's age = 8 yr

Sam's age = 17 yr

Explanation:

Let x = Jenny's age now

then x + 9 = Sam's age now

x - 5 = Jenny's age 5 years ago

x + 9 - 5 = x + 4 = Sam's age 5 years ago

4(x - 5) = x + 4

4x - 20 = x + 4

3x = 24

x = 8 = Jenny's age now

x + 9 = 8 + 9 = 17 Sam's age now

Check: 5 yrs ago Jenny was 3 and Sam was 12

4(3) = 12, so the answer is correct.