Question

The sum of two numbers is 89. Three times the smaller

number is 71 more than the larger. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

The numbers are 40 and 49

Explanation:

Smaller number = x

Larger number = y

Let's write our system of equations:

x + y = 89

3x = y + 71

***************************

x = 89 - y

Substituting x in the 2nd equation and solving for y:

3 (89 - y) = y + 71

267 - 3y = y + 71

-3y - y = 71 - 267 (Like terms)

-4y = - 196

y = -196/-4

y = 49

Solving for x in the 1st equation:

x + y = 89

x + 49 = 89

x = 89 - 49

x = 40

The numbers are 40 and 49