Question

(b) Laura is 8 years older than her sister Stacy. Next year she will be

3 times as old as her sister. How old is Laura?

Answer 1

Stacy's present age = x

Laura's present age = 8 + x

Laura's age next year = (8 + x) + 1

Also, Laura's age next year = 3x

Therefore,

3x = (8 + x) + 1

3x = 9 + x

3x - x = 9

2x = 9

x = 9/2

x = 4.5

Laura's present age = 8 + x = 8 + 4.5 = 12.5