Question 305853
Let j = Joel's present age
Let b = Bob's present age
:
Joel is one third the age of Bob.
j = {{{1/3}}}b
or
b = 3j
:
In 7 years the combined ages of the boys will be 58.
(j+7)+(b+7) = 58
j + b + 14 = 58
j + b = 58 - 14
j + b = 44
:
Replace b with 3j
j + 3j = 44
4j = 44
j = {{{44/4}}}
j = 11 is Joel's present age
:
3(11) = 33 is Bob's age
:
:
Check solution in the statement:
"In 7 years the combined ages of the boys will be 58."
(11 + 7) + (33 + 7) =
18 + 40 = 58