If John was five years older he would be exactly one-third the age of James. If John was three years younger he would be exactly one-sixth the age of James. How old is James?

Just need help with the equation, thanks.

3 answers

Jo + 5 = Ja/3

Jo - 3 = Ja/6
-------------- subtract
0 + 8 = Ja(1/3 - 1/6)

Ja (2/6-1/6) = 8

Ja = 6*8 = 48
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check
Ja = 48
Jo = 3 + Ja/6 = 3 + 8 = 11
then
11+5 = ??? 48/3
16 = 16 sure enough
Just checked if the answer was correct, and unfortunately, it is not.

I understand how you got 16, but I don't understand what is wrong with that equation.
READ
That was the CHECK

James is 48