Multiple choice

The ratio of the present ages of P and Q is 6 : 7. 14 years ago, the ratio of their ages was 5 : 7. Find the present age of Q.

  1. 24 years

  2. 28 years

  3. 18 years

  4. 35 years

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Let present ages of P and Q be 6x and 7x. 14 years ago: P's age = 6x - 14, Q's age = 7x - 14. Given ratio was 5:7, so (6x - 14)/(7x - 14) = 5/7. Cross-multiplying: 7(6x - 14) = 5(7x - 14). 42x - 98 = 35x - 70. 42x - 35x = 98 - 70. 7x = 28, x = 4. Present age of Q = 7x = 7 × 4 = 28 years.