George had thrice as much money as Wendy. After George had given Wendy $144, they had an equal amount of money left. How much money did each of them have at first?
- Wendy
- George
|
Wendy |
George |
Before |
1 u |
3 u |
Change |
+ $144 |
- $144 |
After |
1 u + $144 |
3 u - $144 |
The amounts that George and Wendy had in the end are the same.
3 u - 144 = 1 u + 144
3 u - 1 u = 144 + 144
2 u = 288
1 u = 288 ÷ 2 = 144
Amount that Wendy had at first
= 1 u
= $144
Amount that George had at first
= 3 u
= 3 x 144
= $432
Answer(s): (a) $144; (b) $432