Question 1203440
<br>
Keeping the "+8" in the algebraic equation to represent the 8 years in the future makes the equation more complicated and makes the ensuing work to solve the problem harder.<br>
Do some preliminary logical analysis to reduce the amount of the overall effort.<br>
If in 8 years the sum of their ages will be 62, then currently the sum of their ages is 62-8-8 = 46.<br>
Now let x be Pete's age so that x+24 is Robert's age.  Then<br>
x+(x+24)=46
2x+24=46
2x=22
x=11<br>
Currently Pete is 11 years old, so Robert is 11+24 = 35 years old.<br>
ANSWER: 35<br>