Age Ratio Problem: Tom and John

mediumGrade 5-7age ratio

The Problem

Tom is 34 years old. Tom is twice as old as John. How old is John?

Answer:

17 years old

Key Information

  • Tom is 34 years old
  • Tom is twice as old as John

Formula

Age₁ = ratio × Age₂

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Identify the relationship

Tom is twice as old as John
2

Set up equation

Tom's age = 2 × John's age
3

Substitute known value

34 = 2 × John's age
4

Solve for unknown age

John's age = 34 ÷ 2
5

Calculate

34 ÷ 2 = 17
6

Final answer

John is 17 years old

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Multiplying instead of dividing
  • Using the wrong person's age

Helpful Tips

  • When someone is "twice as old," divide by 2 to find the younger age
  • Check your answer by multiplying back

Real-World Application

Ratio problems help understand proportional relationships between ages.

Related Topics:

ageratiodivisionword problems

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