Question

One-third of a number is 12 less than the number itself

Answer 1

Let "n" be a substitute for "a number"

1/3(n)=n-12 Multiply by 3

n=3n-36 Get n onto the same side of the equation

2n=36 Divide by 2

n=18

Answer 2

The number is 18.

Explanation:

Given : one-third of a number is 12 less than the number itself.

To find : Find number,

Solution : We have given a number.

Let the number = n.

According to question :

One-third of a number =
`(n)/(3)`.

12 less than the number itself = n- 12 ( negative show that number is less )

So,

`(n)/(3)` = n - 12.

On multiplying both sides by 3

n = 3( n- 12).

n= 3n - 36.

On subtracting both sides by 3n

n - 3n = - 36.

-2n = -36 .

On dividing both sides by - 2

n = 18.

Therefore, the number is 18.