Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 35 years
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:This age problem combines a past-time relation with a present-time ratio. We convert both statements into equations with a single parameter and compute the present ages, then sum them.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Let A = 3k and B = 4k at present. Use the “10 years ago” condition (A − 10) = 0.5 * (B − 10) to solve for k and then compute A + B.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Let present ages be A = 3k and B = 4k.Ten years ago: 3k − 10 = (1/2)(4k − 10) = 2k − 5.Therefore 3k − 10 = 2k − 5 ⇒ k = 5.Present ages: A = 15, B = 20. Sum = 35.Verification / Alternative check:
Ten years ago: A = 5, B = 10; indeed A was half of B.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
8, 20, 45: Do not match the equations simultaneously.“None of these” is unnecessary because 35 is valid.Common Pitfalls:
Applying the present ratio to the past directly without subtracting 10.Using A : B = 4 : 3 by mistake (order matters).Final Answer:35 years
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