 |
| ||
| |||
|
| Math Central | Quandaries & Queries |
|
Question from Angel: The sum of Keith's age and Alan's age is 36. Four years ago, the ratio of Keith's age to Alan's age was 4:3. Find the ratio of their present age |
Hi Angel,
I would solve for Keith's and Alan's present ages and then calculate the ratio.
Suppose Keith's current age is $k$ years and Alan's current age is $a$ years. You know that
\[k + a = 36.\]
How old was Keith 4 years ago? How old was Alan 4 years ago? What was the ratio of their ages 4 years ago? You know this ratio is 4:3 so this gives you a second equation. Write this equation in terms of fractions rather than ratios.
You now have two equations on $k$ and $a.$ Solve for $k$ and $a.$
write back if you need more assistance,
Penny
| ||
| ||
| ||
 |
 |
|
Math Central is supported by the University of Regina and The Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences.