Question

Patrick is 20 years older than his son, James. In two years, Patrick will be twice as old as James. Find their present ages. Please explain what you did to get your equation and why!

Answer 1

James is 18 and Patrick is 38

Explanation:

Let p = Patrick's age

Let j= James' age

p = j + 20

p + 2 = 2(j+2) Substitute j + 20 for p

j + 20 + 2 = 2j + 4 Combine like terms.

j + 22 = 2j + 4 Subtract j from both sides

j -j + 22 = 2j - j + 4

22 = j + 4 Subtract 4 from both sides

22 - 4 = j + 4 - 4

18 = j

James is 18 years old.

Substitute 18 for j in p = j + 20

p = 18 + 20

p = 38

Patrick is 38