Final answer:
To solve this problem, set up the equation x(x+1) = x + (x+1) + 209. Simplify and factor the quadratic equation to find the possible values for x. Choose the positive value for x as the solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve this problem, let's assume the two consecutive positive integers are x and x+1. The product of these two numbers is x(x+1) and their sum is x + (x+1). According to the given information, the product is greater than the sum by 209, so we can set up the equation x(x+1) = x + (x+1) + 209.
Expanding and simplifying the equation, we get x² + x = 2x + 210.
Moving the terms to one side, we have x² - x - 210 = 0. Factoring the quadratic equation, we get (x-15)(x+14) = 0.
This gives us two possible values for x: x = 15 or x = -14. Since we're looking for positive integers, the solution is x = 15. Therefore, the consecutive positive integers are 15 and 16.