Seven years ago, Jackson's age was 2/5 of the age he will be 20 years from now. How old is Jackson now?

Answer 1

Define variables.

x=Jackson's current age

Set the equations up by:

x-7=2/5(x+20)

solve for x

5x-35=2x+40
(I multiplied both sides by 5 and distributed the 2 to the (x+20)).

Isolate x

3x=75

ANSWER:
x=25

Now check the answer.

7 years ago from 25 would mean he was 18 which is equal to 2/5 of 20+25 which is also 18. Therefore the equation works out and Jackson is 25 right now.