Jack was 17 years older than Priscilla together their ages totaled 165 years what were their ages

Answer 1

j+p = 165

j= p+17

p+17+p = 165

2p = 165-17 = 148

p = 148/2 = 74 years old = Pricilla's age

j = p+17 = 91 years old = Jack's age

Answer 2

If we set Priscilla's age equal to the variable P, then we could define both Jack & Priscilla's ages in terms of P. That is, we could express their ages in the following manner:

1) Priscilla's age: P

2) Jack's age: P + 17

From that point, you can apply the additional constraint that was given and solve for P.

Hope this helps,

Todd