Erika is twice as old as James. The sum of their ages is 48 less than 5 Times James’ age. How old are Erika and James?

Question

I just wrote everything in the question box.

Answer 1

E = Erika's age

J = James' age

(1)  E = 2J

(2)  E + J = 5J-48

substituting (1) in (2)...

2J + J = 5J-48

-2J = -48

J = 24 years old for James

E = 2J = 48 years old for Erika

Check:  Is Erika twice as old as James?  Yes.  48 is twice 24.

Is the sum of their ages 48 less than 5 times James' age?  5x24 = 120 and 48 less is 72. This is the sum of their ages.