Question

The sum of the ages of a father and his son is 56. If they both live until the son is as old as his father is at present, their ages toghthter will be be then 96. Find the present age of afther

Answer 1

Let S = son's age now

Let F = father's age now

Sum is 56 ==> S + F = 56

After 4 years father will be 3 times son ==> F + 4 = 3*(S + 4) = 3S + 12 ==> F = 3S + 8

Substitute this value for F into the 1st equation

S + (3S + 8) = 56

4S + 8 = 56

4S = 48

S = 12

So the son is 12 and the father is 56-12 = 44

Check: In 4 years the father will be 48 and the son will be 16, 48 = 3*16