Three brothers

The three brothers have a total of 42 years. Jan is five years younger than Peter, and Peter is two years younger than Michael. How many years has each of them?

Correct answer:

J =  10
M =  17
P =  15

Step-by-step explanation:


J+P+M = 42
J = P-5
P = M-2

J+M+P = 42
J-P = -5
M-P = 2

Row 2 - Row 1 → Row 2
J+M+P = 42
-M-2P = -47
M-P = 2

Row 3 + Row 2 → Row 3
J+M+P = 42
-M-2P = -47
-3P = -45


P = -45/-3 = 15
M = -47+2P/-1 = -47+2 · 15/-1 = 17
J = 42-M-P = 42-17-15 = 10

J = 10
M = 17
P = 15

Our linear equations calculator calculates it.

Try another example


Did you find an error or inaccuracy? Feel free to write us. Thank you!







Tips for related online calculators
Do you have a system of equations and are looking for calculator system of linear equations?

You need to know the following knowledge to solve this word math problem:

Grade of the word problem:

Related math problems and questions: