Past multiple and present sum: Four years ago, a father was 5 times as old as his son. The sum of their present ages is 44. What is the son’s present age?

Introduction / Context:This blends a past-time multiplicative relation with a present-time sum. Translate the past statement to an equation in present ages, then combine with the present sum to solve the system.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Let present ages be F (father) and S (son)
• F − 4 = 5 * (S − 4)
• F + S = 44

Concept / Approach:From the past relation express F in terms of S. Substitute into the present sum to compute S directly.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:Then F = 34. Four years ago: F = 30, S = 6, and 30 = 5 * 6 ✓.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:6 and 8 are past values or misreads; 4 is inconsistent with the equations.

Common Pitfalls:Applying the “times” relationship to present ages instead of the correctly shifted past ages.

Final Answer:10 years