Brian pays 50% more each month in rent than Erik, and together they pay $1062.50 per month. How much does Brian pay per month

Question

Brian pays  more each month in rent than Erik, and together they pay 1062.50 per month. How much does Brian pay per month?

Need help with setting it up and solving.

Answer 1

B = (1.5)E

Brian pays 50% more than Eric so

Brian pays 1 1/2 times as much as Eric

B=3E/2

B+E = 1062.50

3E/2 + E = 1062.50

5E/2 = 1062.50

E = (2/5)1062.50 = 2 x 212.50 = $425

B = 3E/2 = 3x425/2 = 1275/2 = $637.50