The sum of the present ages of a mother and a son is 50 years. 4 years ago, the ratio of their ages was 6 : 1. Find the current age of the mother.

Question

Question

Answer 1

4 years ago, the ratio of their ages was 6 : 1.

Let their ages be measured in terms of unit x.

So, presents the age of a mother is 6x + 4 and the present age of a son is x + 4.

The sum of the present ages of a mother and a son is 50 years.

According to problem:

(6x + 4) + (x + 4) = 50

⇒ 6x + 4 + x + 4 = 50

⇒ 7x = 50 – 8

⇒ 7x = 42

⇒ x = 6

So, the present age of mother is 6x + 4 i.e, (6 × 6) + 4 = 40 years.

Hence, 40 years is the correct answer.