To solve this problem, we can use a system of equations. Let’s let the variable j represent Juan’s age and the variable m represent Maria’s age.
From our given information, we can construct two equations with our given variables:
j + m = 21
m + 3 = j
To solve, we can manipulate our second equation to be for m in terms of j.
m + 3 = j
m = j - 3
Now, we can substitute in this value for m into our first equation.
j + m = 21
j + (j -3) = 21
Next, we can add the variable terms on the left side of the equation.
2j -3 = 21
Next, we can add 3 to both sides to get the variable term alone on the left side of the equation.
2j = 24
Finally, we should divide both sides by 2 in order to solve for j.
j = 12
Finally, we must substitute this value for j into one of the original equations.
j + m = 21
12 + m = 21
m = 9
Therefore, Maria is 9 and Juan is 12.
Hope this helps!
