What is Kayleen's current age if she will be four times older in 20 years?

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SUMMARY

Kayleen's current age can be determined using the equation derived from the problem statement: in 20 years, she will be four times her current age. The equation x + 20 = 4x simplifies to 20 = 3x, leading to the conclusion that Kayleen's current age is 20/3 years, or approximately 6 years and 8 months. This fractional age is valid, as it represents a specific point in time rather than a whole number. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accepting fractional ages in mathematical problems.

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In 20 years, Kayleen will be four times older than she is today. What is her current age?

Kayleen's current age is x.

Kayleen in 20 years = x + 20.

x + 20 = 4x

This equation does not make sense.
 
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RTCNTC said:
In 20 years, Kayleen will be four times older than she is today. What is her current age?

Kayleen's current age is x.

Kayleen in 20 years = x + 20.

x + 20 = 4x

This equation does not make sense.

The equation is correct, there's no reason to believe that your answer has to be a whole number...
 
Kayleen's current age is x.

Kayleen in 20 years = x + 20.

x + 20 = 4x

20 = 4x - x

20 = 3x

20/3 = x

Kathleen's current age is 20/3. This makes no sense. I think there's a typo in the original problem.
 
RTCNTC said:
Kayleen's current age is x.

Kayleen in 20 years = x + 20.

x + 20 = 4x

20 = 4x - x

20 = 3x

20/3 = x

Kathleen's current age is 20/3. This makes no sense. I think there's a typo in the original problem.

Why do you think that a person can't be a fractional age? This is 6 years and 8 months...
 
Prove It said:
Why do you think that a person can't be a fractional age? This is 6 years and 8 months...

How do I convert 20/3 to 6 years and 8 months?
 
20 divided by 3 is 6 and two thirds. Two thirds of a year is 8 months.
 
More age word problems tomorrow.
 

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