16Hit1600
AlgebraMediumAges now from a future sum

Algebra practice question

Ana is 4 years older than Ben. In 6 years, the sum of their ages will be 40. How old is Ben now?

Answer: 12

Let Ben's age be b, so Ana's is b + 4. In 6 years: (b + 4 + 6) + (b + 6) = 40 → 2b + 16 = 40 → b = 12.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 14
14 comes from 2b + 12 = 40, adding the 6 years to only one person.
If you answered 16
16 is Ana's age now, not Ben's.
If you answered 18
18 is Ben's age in 6 years.

More Algebra questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.