Question

Sam's mother is twice as old as Sam. In 12 years, Sam will be as old as his mother was 12 years ago. How old are Sam and his mother now?

Answer 1

Sam, is 24 years old. His mom is 48 years old.

Answer 2

Sam is 24 years old and his mother is 48 years old.

Explanation:

Equations

Let's call

x = Sam's current age

Since Sam's mother is twice as old as Sam:

2x = Sam's mother current age

x + 12 = Sam's age in 12 years

2x - 12 = Sam's mother age 12 years ago

These two last expressions are equal:

x + 12 = 2x - 12

Subtracting x and adding 12:

x = 24

2x = 48

Sam is 24 years old and his mother is 48 years old.