Let X be the amount owned by James.

The amount owned by Ali is X - $40.

The total amount owned by both of them X + (X - $40) = $250.

Combining like terms, we get X*2 - $40 = $250.

Adding $40 to both sides, we get X*2 = $290.

Dividing both sides by 2, we get X = $145.

# Answer

145
<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
James and Ali together own $250. If you know that James owns $40 more than Ali, then calculate the amount owned by James.
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
145
James and Ali together own $250. If you know that James owns $40 more than Ali, then calculate the amount owned by James.
train