Question

The sum of the ages of John and Mary is 32. Four years ago, John was twice
as old as Mary. Find the present age of each.

Answer 1

Answer:

Mary is 12, John is 20

Explanation:

Let x = Age of Mary 4 years ago
2x = Age of John 4 years ago

x + 4 = Current age of Mary
2x + 4 = Current age of John

32 = (2x + 4) + (x + 4)
32 = 3x + 8
24 = 3x

x = 8, 2x = 16

8 + 4 = 12
2x + 4 = 20
12 + 20 = 32
Therefore, Mary is 12 and John is 20