Multiple choice

The sum of the present ages of two cousins is 46 years. Eight years ago, the elder one was twice as old as the younger one. What is the present age of the elder cousin?

  1. 28 years

  2. 30 years

  3. 22 years

  4. 26 years
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A Correct answer
Explanation

Let present ages be E (elder) and Y (youngier). E + Y = 46. Eight years ago: (E-8) = 2(Y-8). Substituting Y = 46-E: E-8 = 2(46-E-8) = 2(38-E) = 76-2E. So 3E = 84, E = 28. Verification: Y = 18, eight years ago ages were 20 and 10, and 20 = 2(10). Present age of elder is 28 years.

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