Question

The second of two numbers is 3 less than twice the first. Their sum is 36. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

13 and 23

Explanation:

create an equation to solve:

(2x-3) + x = 36

3x - 3 = 36 combine like terms

+3 +3 add 3 to both sides

3x = 39

3 3 divide both sides by 3

x = 13

13 is the first number

the 2nd number is 3 let than twice the first so we create and solve a new equation:

2x - 3 = ?

2(13) = ? substitute 13 from the

smaller number to solve

23 = the 2nd number