Alex is 7 years older than Jordan. the sum if their ages is 33, how old are Jordan and Alex

To answer this, set up a system of equations.

We know that Jordan's age, y, plus Alex's age, x, is equal to 33

x+y=33

We also know that Alex's age, x, is equal to Jordan's age, y, plus 7

x=y+7

Substitute (y+7) in for x. You can do this because y+7 is equal to x

y+y+7==33

Combine like terms

2y+7=33

Subtract 7 from each side

2y=26

Finally divide each side by 2

y=13

Jordan is 13 years old.

Plug 13 in for y in the second equation.

x=13+7

x=20

Alex is 20 years old

To check your answer, plug both ages in to true other equation.

20+13=33

33=33

Alex=20 years old

Jordan=13 years ild

Jordan is 13 and Alex is 20 years old