Hi,

Let x represent Fred's age now.  Then William's age now is(20-x)

Write as we Read***

(20-x) + 1 = 9(x-1)

Solving for x

20 -x + 1 = 9x -9

30 = 10x

3 = x, Fred's age now.  William is now 17 (20-3)



checking our answer

17 + 1 = 9*2 

Answer by amoresroy(361)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
 the sum of william's age and fred's age is 20 years. William's age 1 year from now will be 9 times fred's age 1 year ago. Find the present age of each



Let W = the present age of William

    F = the present age of Fred



1st equation

W+F = 20

  W = 20 - F



2nd equation

W + 1= 9(F-1)

since W = 20-F in 1st equation 

The 2nd equation becomes

(20-F) + 1 = 9(F-1)

20-F + 1 = 9F - 9

      10F= 30

        F = 3



        W = 20 - 3

          = 17  

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