Question

Answer with an algebraic equation too!!

Four years from now the combined ages of a set of twins will be 50. How old are they now?

Answer 1

The twins are 21 years old right now.

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

Explanation:

Let x = the current age of one of the twins.

They are twins, that means they are the same age. So the other twin is also x years old.

In four years, the age will be x+4.

Both of them together will be:

(x+4) + (x+4)

The question says that total (of their ages in 4 years) will be 50.

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

Combine like terms.

2x + 8 = 50

Subtract 8.

2x = 42

Divide by 2.

x = 21

The twins are currently 21.

To check: in four years they will be 25; then the sum of their ages will be 50. Check! Hope this helps!