Question

Clementine is 5 years younger than Matilda. In 15 years, their combined ages will be 45. How old is Clementine now?

Answer 1

C = Clementine age now
M = Matilda's age now

Answer 2

"Clementine is 5 years younger than Matilda"

So

C = M-5

Answer 3

15 yrs from now, the two ages will be C+15 and M+15

"In 15 years, their combined ages will be 45"

which means

(M+15) + (C+15) = 45

(M+15) + (M-5+15) = 45 ... plug in C = M-5

and solve for M

Answer 4

How do I solve for M?

Answer 5

(M+15) + (M-5+15) = 45

M+15 + M-5+15 = 45

2M+25 = 45

I'll let you finish

Answer 6

So M=10?

Answer 7

yes

Answer 8

So now do I do 10-5=5 (Clementine)

Answer 9

yes C = 5