John had thrice as much money as Xylia. After John had given Xylia $178, they had an equal amount of money left. How much money did each of them have at first?
- Xylia
- John
|
Xylia |
John |
Before |
1 u |
3 u |
Change |
+ $178 |
- $178 |
After |
1 u + $178 |
3 u - $178 |
The amounts that John and Xylia had in the end are the same.
3 u - 178 = 1 u + 178
3 u - 1 u = 178 + 178
2 u = 356
1 u = 356 ÷ 2 = 178
Amount that Xylia had at first
= 1 u
= $178
Amount that John had at first
= 3 u
= 3 x 178
= $534
Answer(s): (a) $178; (b) $534