Question

Joe's age exceeds by Vika's age by 16 years. Four years ago, Joe was twice as old as Vika. Find the present age for each.

Answer 1

Joe's present age = 36 years

Vika's present age = 20 years

Explanation:

Let us represent the present age of

Joe = x

Vika = y

Joe's age exceeds by Vika's age by 16 years.

x = y + 16...... Equation 1

Four years ago, Joe was twice as old as Vika.

x - 4 = 2(y - 4)

x - 4 = 2y - 8........ Equation 2

We substitute y + 16 for x

y + 16 - 4 = 2y - 8

Collect like terms

16 - 4 + 8 = 2y - y

y = 20 years

We solve for x

x = y + 16...... Equation 1

x = 20 + 16

x = 36 years

Therefore, Joe's present age = 36 years

Vika's present age = 20 years