Tommy has twice as much money as Emma. Shannon has $10 less than Emma. Together they have $70. How much money does each have?

Question

Tommy has twice as much money as Emma. Shannon has $10 less than Emma. Together they have $70. How much money does each have?

Answer 1

Tommy and Shannon are compared to Emma. So start with her.

 

e = money Emma has.  Tommy has twice (two times) that.

t = 2e                           Shannon has 10 less (subtract).

s = e - 10

 

70 = e + t + s               Substituting from above

70 = e + 2e + e - 10

70 = 4e - 10

80 = 4e

20 = e

 

Emma has $20, Tommy has $40, and Shannon has $10.