Sure! Let’s solve this step by step.
1. Let [tex]\( s \)[/tex] represent Steven’s age.
2. Since Melisa's age is two times Steven's age, we can express Melisa’s age as [tex]\( 2s \)[/tex].
3. According to the problem, Melisa is 12 years older than Steven.
Therefore, we have the equation:
[tex]\[
2s = s + 12
\][/tex]
4. To find Steven's age, we need to solve this equation for [tex]\( s \)[/tex].
Subtract [tex]\( s \)[/tex] from both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
2s - s = 12
\][/tex]
Simplifying this, we get:
[tex]\[
s = 12
\][/tex]
5. So, Steven’s age is 12 years.
6. To find Melisa’s age, substitute [tex]\( s = 12 \)[/tex] into the expression for Melisa's age:
[tex]\[
2s = 2 \times 12 = 24
\][/tex]
7. Therefore, Melisa’s age is 24 years.
To summarize:
- Steven is 12 years old.
- Melisa is 24 years old.
