Question

17 = a + b

b is one more than a

work out the values of a and b

(simultaneous equation)

Answer 1

Explanation:

Solution

17 = a + b

b = a + 1 Substitute b into the top equation

17 = a + a+1 Combine

17 = 2a + 1 Subtract 1 from both sides

17-1 = 2a+1-1 Combine

16 = 2a Divide both sides by 2

16/2 = 2a/2

a = 8

b = 8 + 1 = 9

Answer

a = 8

b = 9