Question

Tim is twice as old as his son. In six years, Tim's age will be three times than what his son's age was six years ago. How old is Tim's son now?

Answer 1

`6` years old

Explanation:

Start by creating two "let" statements.

Let `x` be Tim's son's age now.
Let `2x` be TIm's age now.

Using `x` and `2x`, create an algebraic expression representing Tim's son's age now and Tim's age six years from now.

`2x+6=3x`

The left side represents Tim's age six years from now while the right side represents Tim's age now . Notice how the `3` is on the right side instead of the left side because you must ensure that the equation is equal. If it were `3(2x+6)=x`, the equation would be incorrect since it implies that Tim is not two times older than his son.

To solve for `x`, subtract both sides of the equation by `2x`.

`2xcolor(white)(i)color(red)(-2x)+6=3xcolor(white)(i)color(red)(-2x)`

`6=x`

Since `x` represents Tim's son's age now and `x=6`, Tim's son is `6` years old now.