A father and son together are 56 years old. In four years, the father’s age will be three times the son’s age. What are their present ages (son, father)?

Introduction / Context:
Questions on ages often combine a present-time sum with a future (or past) ratio. Here, we are given the sum of a father’s and son’s ages now, and a relationship four years later. We must form linear equations and solve systematically.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Present sum: father + son = 56 years.
• In 4 years: father will be three times the son then.
• All ages are whole-number years; relationships are exact.

Concept / Approach:
Translate words into equations. Let s = son’s present age, f = father’s present age. Use simultaneous linear equations: f + s = 56 and (f + 4) = 3 * (s + 4).

Step-by-Step Solution:

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Final Answer:
12 years, 44 years