Question

Michael is 2 years older than his friend Jason. 16 years ago, Jason was half of Michael's age. how old is Jason now?

Answer 1

The present age of Jason is
`18` years.

Explanation:

Let the present age of Jason be
`x` years.

Michael is
`2` years older than Jason.

So, the present age of Michael be
`x+2` years.

`16` years ago,

Jason's age
`=x-16` years.

Michael' age
`=x+2-16=x-14` years.

According to the question,
`16` years ago, Jason was half of Michael's age.

So,
`x-16=(1)/(2)(x-14)`

`\Rightarrow 2\left ( x-16 \right )=(x-14)`

`\Rightarrow 2x-32=x-14`

`\Rightarrow 2x-x=-14+32`

`\Rightarrow x=18`

Hence, the present age of Jason is
`18` years.