Ages (past half relation and present ratio): Ten years ago, Divya's age was half of Namrata's. Today their ages are in the ratio 3 : 4. Find the sum of their present ages.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 35 years

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This problem links a past proportional statement with a present ratio. Expressing present ages using a single parameter lets us translate the “ten years ago” condition into a solvable equation.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Present ratio Divya : Namrata = 3 : 4 ⇒ D = 3x, N = 4x.
  • Ten years ago: D − 10 = (1/2)(N − 10).


Concept / Approach:
Substitute D = 3x and N = 4x into the past relation and solve for x. Then compute present ages and sum them to answer the question.


Step-by-Step Solution:

3x − 10 = (1/2)(4x − 10) = 2x − 5. Thus x = 5 ⇒ D = 15, N = 20. Sum of present ages = 15 + 20 = 35 years.


Verification / Alternative check:
Ten years ago they were 5 and 10 respectively, so Divya was indeed half of Namrata (✓). The present ratio 15 : 20 reduces to 3 : 4 (✓).


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each alternative sum implies a value of x that breaks either the past “half” relation or the present ratio.


Common Pitfalls:
Misapplying the half relation to the present instead of to the past snapshot, or mixing the ten-year adjustment asymmetrically.


Final Answer:
35 years

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