Answer to Question #304098 in Algebra for Portis

Question

Sipho and litha are brothers. The sum of their ages is 29. In 6 years' time Sipho will be the same age as Litha was 3 years ago. Determine the current age of the two brothers. Let x be the age of Sipho.

Answer 1

Let's say sipho is X and litha is y.

Therefore $X+Y=29$

In six years time

$X+6=Y-3$

$Y=X+9$

Substitute in

$X+Y=29\\X+(X+9)=29\\sipho=10years\\ litho=19 years$