SOLUTION: Ralph is 16 years old. In 2 years he will be double the age of his younger brother Joe. How old is Joe right now?

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Question 1143651: Ralph is 16 years old. In 2 years he will be double the age of his younger brother Joe. How old is Joe right now?
Found 2 solutions by josgarithmetic, greenestamps:
Answer by josgarithmetic(39620) About Me  (Show Source):
Answer by greenestamps(13200) About Me  (Show Source):
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Of course you should know how to set up and solve this problem using formal algebra.

However, solving the problem using logical reasoning can be valuable mental exercise.

Ralph is now 16; in 2 years he will be 18.
When he is 18 (2 years from now), he will be twice Joe's age; that means Joe's age 2 years from now will be 9.
And that means Joe's age now is 7.