The sum of the ages of Joseph and Erica is 57 years. 9 years ago, Joseph's age was 2 times Erica's age. How old is Joseph now?

Question

 I need the answer for math class.

Answer 1

J=Joseph's age

e=Erica's age

j+e=57

j-9  9 years ago

e-9 9 years ago

j-9=2(e-9)

j+e=57 ---> j=57-e

substitute

57-e-9=2(e-9)

48-e=2e-18

48+18=2e+e

66=3e

e=66/3

e=22 Erica's age

57-22=35 Joseph's age now

35-9=2(22-9)

26=2(13)

26=26