really need help with 'number', 'age' word problems

[shikonsword]

I can not figure out these math homework questions and i have a huge test overthem tomorrow if any one can help me fgure them out please do.

The difference between two numbers is 65. Five times the smaller number plus three times the larger number is -117. What are the numbers?

Here's where I am at:

X = the smaller number
and y = the larger number
5x+3y=-117

y-x =65

Then there's this one:

Pedro is twice as old as Jim. Nineteen years ago, Pedro was three times as old as jim was 19 years ago. How old is each now?

and thats where i get lost
please if any one can help please do so thank you again.
Joshua Vallee

 

[tkhunny]

Re: REALLY NEED HELP PLEASE!!!!!

Pedro is twice as old as Jim. Nineteen years ago, Pedro was three times as old as jim was 19 years ago. How old is each now?

It is not necessary to figure out the equation. It doesn't exist until you create it. So, create it or them. First, however, you need good definitions.

P = Pedro's Age Now
J = Jim's Age Now

It is now your turn to create the equations.

"Pedro is twice as old as Jim."

P = 2*J

You do the other one.

 

[shikonsword]

sorry about that i think i figured it out

so let me double check on it

Jim is the X

Pedro is the 2X

X=2X
3(X-19)=2X-19 for the loss in years
3X - 57 = 2X -19
-2X +57 -2X +57
X = 38

So if i am right on the last one then am i going in the right direction with this one?

 

[tkhunny]

Jim is the X

Pedro is the 2X

X=2X
3(X-19)=2X-19 for the loss in years
3X - 57 = 2X -19
-2X +57 -2X +57
X = 38

You have not yet answered the question. Reread the problem statement.