Question

The sum of two numbers is 26. Their dif.
ference is 4. Find the smaller number

Answer 1

The smaller number is 11

Explanation:

Let x represent one number and y represent the other.

Since the sum of 2 number is 26, x + y = 26.

The difference of the 2 numbers is 4, so x - y = 4.

x + y = 26

x - y = 4

Solve by combing the two equations:

x + x + y - y = 26 + 4

2x = 30

x = 15

x - y = 4

15 - y = 4

y = 15 - 4 = 11

Since 11 < 15, the smaller number, y , is 11.

Answer 2

Equations:
x + y = 26
x - y = 4
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Add to get:
2x = 30
x = 15
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Solve for "y":
x + y = 26
15 + y = 26
y = 11 (smaller number)