age

Algebra Level 2

Sam is just three times as old as May. But in two years’ time he will only be twice as old as she is. How old is May?

2 6 3 4 1

1 solution

A Former Brilliant Member
May 15, 2017

let $S$ and $M$ be the present ages of Sam and May, respectively

at present: $S=3M$ $\color{#D61F06}(1)$

2 years from now: $S+2=2(M+2)$ $\color{#D61F06}(2)$

substitute $\color{#D61F06}(1)$ in $\color{#D61F06}(2)$ , we obtain

$3M+2=2M+4$ $\implies$ $3M-2M=4-2$ $\implies$ $M=2$