The present age of Salil’s mother is three times Salil’s present age. After five years, their ages will add up to 70 years. Find their present ages.

SOLUTION

Assume their present ages as per the question

Let Salil’s age be \(x\) years. Then his mother’s age must be \(3x \) years.

Calculate their ages after \(5\) years. They both grow \(5\) years older

After \(5\) years,
Salil’s age = \(x+5\)
His mother’s age = \(3x +5\)

Check the question for a relationship between their ages and form the equation

"After five years, their ages will add up to 70 years."
Therefore,
\((x+5) + (3x+5) = 70\)
⇒\( 4x + 10 = 70\)
⇒\( 4x = 60\)
⇒\( x = 15\)

Write down their present ages

Salil’s age = \(x = 15\)
Mother’s age = \(3x = 3(15) ‎ = 45\)

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Final Answer : Salil is 15 years old and his mother is 45 years old.

To find the present ages, represent present ages using a variable, then express future ages, set up a sum equation, and solve.