Hazel is three times as old as joel, and in 4 years she will be twice as old as joel. how old was hazel when joel was born?

Hazel was 3 years old when Joel was born.

Step-by-step explanation:

Let x be the present age ( in years ) of Joel,

Given,

Hazel is three times as old as Joel,

Age of Hazel = 3x,

After 4 years, age of Joel = x + 4,

And, age of Hazel = 3x + 4

According to the question,

2(x+4) = 3x + 4

by distributive property,

2x + 8 = 3x + 4

By subtraction property of equality,

2x = 3x + 4 - 8

2x = 3x - 4

Again by subtraction property of equality,

-x = -4

Divide both sides by - 1

x = 4

Thus, the present age of Joel = 4,

Also, the present age of Hazel = 12,

Difference in ages = 12 - 4 = 3,

Therefore, Hazel was 3 years old when Joel was born.

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