Last year, Simon was 3 times as old as his son, Tommy. This year, their total age is 38 years old. How old will Tommy be when Simon is 2 times as old as him?
|
Simon |
Tommy |
Difference |
Total |
Before |
3x1 = 3 u |
1x1 = 1 u |
2x1 = 2 u |
|
Change 1 |
+ 1 |
+ 1 |
|
|
After 1 |
3 u + 1 |
1 u + 1 |
|
38 |
Change |
+ ? |
+ ? |
|
|
After 2 |
2x2 = 4 u |
1x2 = 2 u |
1x2 = 2 u |
|
The difference in Ben's age and his son's age always remains unchanged. Make the difference in age the same. LCM of 2 and 1 is 2.
Total age of Simon and his son this year
= 3 u + 1 + 1 u + 1
= 4 u + 2
4 u + 2 = 38
4 u = 38 - 2
4 u = 36
1 u = 36 ÷ 4 = 9
Simon's age when Simon is 2 times as old as him
= 2 u
= 2 x 9
= 18
Answer(s): 18