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The sum of two numbers I'd 16. Three times the larger number decreased by the smaller is 72. Find the number

User Kinglish
by
5.1k points

1 Answer

1 vote

Answer:

22, -6

Explanation:

Create a system of equations.

x= the larger number

y=the smaller number

Using what you know, create the equations:

x+y=16

3x-y=72

Now add the two equations together. (elimination method)

x+y=16

+ 3x-y=72 (the y's cancel out)

-----------------

4x = 88 Divide.

x = 22

Now plug in x=22 into one of your equations to solve for y.

x+y=16

22+y=16

y=-6

The numbers are 22 and -6.

User Siegfred
by
5.5k points
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