Example 04 | Age Related Problem in Algebra

Problem
Albert is as old as Bryan will be when Albert is twice as old as Bryan was when Albert's age was half the sum of their present ages. Bryan is as old as Albert was when Bryan was half the age he will be ten years from now. How old are Albert and Bryan?
 

Answer Key

 

Solution

 

Comments

Question:
Why is the mathematical expression for ...when Albert is twice as old as Bryan was...
A + x = 2(B - y)
And not
A = 2(B - y) since "when Albert is" refers to the present?

Jhun Vert's picture

"When Albert is" refers to the time when "Albert is as old as Bryan will be" (the previous statement) which is x yrs in the future. Similar interpretation for "Bryan is as old as Albert was when Bryan was half the age he will be ten years from now"