Multiple choice

The present age of a father is three times that of his elder son. Four years hence, the age of the father will be four times that of his younger son. If the difference between the present ages of the elder and younger child is 6 years, what is the present age of the father?

  1. 36 years

  2. 38 years

  3. 42 years

  4. 32 years
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A Correct answer
Explanation

Let father's age = F, elder son = E, younger son = Y. F = 3E. After 4 years: F+4 = 4(Y+4). Also E - Y = 6. Solving: F = 3E, so 3E+4 = 4Y+16, and E = Y+6. Substituting: 3(Y+6)+4 = 4Y+16, so 3Y+22 = 4Y+16, giving Y = 6. Then E = 12, F = 36. The key is setting up simultaneous equations and solving systematically.

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