Word equation, algebra 1

Question

The 70-foot rope was cut into two pieces. One of the pieces was 10 feet longer than three times the length of the other piece. How long was each piece?

Answer 1

Let x and y be the lengths of the two pieces.

x+y = 70

x-3y = 10

subtract the second equation from the first

0+4y = 60

y = 60/4 = 15

x = 70-y = 70-15 = 55