Question

Solve the problem by entering and solving an equation.

The Wilsons have triplets and another child who is eleven years old. The sum of the ages of their children is 38. How old are the triplets?


The equation is __n + __ = __
. The triplets are _______ years old.

Answer 1

equation: 3n+11=38

The triplets are 9 years old.

Explanation:

3n : triplets x their age

11 : the sum

38 : the sum of the ages

We must isolate n to know their age so,

<=> 3n+11=38

<=> 3n=38-11

<=> n=(38-11)/3

<=> n=9

Answer 2

9

Explanation:

Equation

`3n + 11 = 38`

3n=38-11

n=27/3

n=9

therefore triplets are 9 years old

Check

`3n + 11 = 38`

`3 * 9 + 11 = 38 \\ 27 + 11 = 38 \\ 38 = 38`