Last year, Michael was 5 times as old as his son, Jenson. This year, their total age is 86 years old. How old will Jenson be when Michael is 3 times as old as him?
| |
Michael |
Jenson |
Difference |
Total |
| Before |
5x1 =
5 u |
1x1 =
1 u |
4x1 =
4 u |
|
| Change 1 |
+ 1 |
+ 1 |
|
|
| After 1 |
5 u + 1 |
1 u + 1 |
|
86 |
| Change |
+ ? |
+ ? |
|
|
After 2 |
3x2 =
6 u |
1x2 =
2 u |
2x2 =
4 u |
|
The difference in Ben's age and his son's age always remains unchanged. Make the difference in age the same. LCM of 4 and 2 is 4.
Total age of Michael and his son this year
= 5 u + 1 + 1 u + 1
= 6 u + 2
6 u + 2 = 86
6 u = 86 - 2
6 u = 84
1 u = 84 ÷ 6 = 14
Michael's age when Michael is 3 times as old as him
= 2 u
= 2 x 14
= 28
Answer(s): 28
