Ages — two-person sum with a future ratio: Varun and Kapil together are 42 years old. After 5 years, their age ratio will be 15:11 (Varun:Kapil). Find Kapil’s present age.
Verbal Reasoning
Problems on Ages
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
-
A17 yr
-
B24 yr
-
C25 yr
-
D22 yr
Answer
Correct Answer: 17 yr
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Sum of ages combined with a future ratio creates a simple system. We use substitution to solve for each present age.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- V + K = 42.
- (V + 5) : (K + 5) = 15 : 11.
Concept / Approach:Convert the ratio into an equation and use V = 42 − K to solve for K.
Step-by-Step Solution:
11(V + 5) = 15(K + 5).11(42 − K + 5) = 15(K + 5) ⇒ 11(47 − K) = 15K + 75.517 − 11K = 15K + 75 ⇒ 442 = 26K ⇒ K = 17.Therefore Kapil = 17 years; Varun = 25 years.Verification / Alternative check:
After 5 years: V = 30, K = 22 ⇒ 30:22 = 15:11 ✓Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 24, 25, 22 do not satisfy both the sum and the future ratio together.
Common Pitfalls:
- Inverting the ratio 15:11.
- Arithmetic mistakes while expanding and simplifying.
Final Answer:17 yr