Zeph had thrice as much money as Jane. After Zeph had given Jane $171, they had an equal amount of money left. How much money did each of them have at first?
- Jane
- Zeph
|
Jane |
Zeph |
Before |
1 u |
3 u |
Change |
+ $171 |
- $171 |
After |
1 u + $171 |
3 u - $171 |
The amounts that Zeph and Jane had in the end are the same.
3 u - 171 = 1 u + 171
3 u - 1 u = 171 + 171
2 u = 342
1 u = 342 ÷ 2 = 171
Amount that Jane had at first
= 1 u
= $171
Amount that Zeph had at first
= 3 u
= 3 x 171
= $513
Answer(s): (a) $171; (b) $513