Five years ago, Vinay's age was one-third of Vikas's age. Vinay is now 17 years old. What is Vikas's present age?

Introduction / Context:
A direct “years ago” ratio with one current age given. We work backward to the past and then forward for the other person's present age.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Vinay now = 17
• 5 years ago: Vinay was one-third of Vikas

Concept / Approach:
Compute past ages first, use the ratio to get Vikas's past age, then add the elapsed time to get his present age.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 36 is Vikas's age five years ago, not now.
• 9 and 51 do not match the ratio and timeline.
• None of these: 41 satisfies the condition.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to add the elapsed 5 years back after using the past ratio; confusing one-third with one-fourth or other fractions.

Final Answer:
41 years