Andy is 2 years older than jeff. in 5 years the sum of their ages will be 40.find their ages now? explain your answer using algebra

Hello!

You can make two equations based on what you know

let x stand for andy's age
let y stand for Jeff's age

x = 2 + y
5 + x + 5 + y = 40

Put x into the second equation

5 + (2 + y) + 5 + y = 40

Combine like terms

12 + 2y = 40

Subtract 12 from both sides

2y = 28

Divide both sides by 2

y = 14

Put y into the first equation

x = 2 + (14)

x = 16

Andy is 16 and Jeff is 14

Hope this helps!