Question

Maria’s father is three times as old as Maria. Six years ago, father’s age was

five times Maria’s age. What are their ages?

Answer 1

The dad is 36 and Maria is 12

Answer 2

Answer: Maria's age = 12

Father's age = 36

Explanation:

Let Maria's age be p and her father's age be q

Then, we form equation from the question:

Father's age (q) = 3 x p

Therefore, q = 3p ......equation 1

Six years ago,

q - 6 = 5 (p - 6)

q - 6 = 5p - 30

q - 5p = -30 + 6

q - 5p = -24 ..........equation 2

Insert the value of q= 3p into equation 2

3p - 5p = -24

-2p = -24

Divide both sides by -2

p = -24/-2

p = 12

If Maria"s age is 12, then Father's age(q) = 3p will be 3 x 12= 36