Question

Michael is 12 years older than Lynn. The sum of the ages is 84. How old is Michael?

Answer 1

Equations can be formed from the given data as,

`\begin{gathered} M=L+12 \\ M+L=84 \end{gathered}`

Subtracting, both the equations we get,

`\begin{gathered} M-(M+L)=L+12-84 \\ -L=L-72 \\ 2L=72 \\ L=(72)/(2) \\ L=36 \end{gathered}`
`\begin{gathered} M=L+12 \\ M=36+12 \\ M=48 \end{gathered}`

Hence, Michael is 48 years old.