Question

The larger of two numbers is seven less than three times the smaller number. If the sum of the numbers is 61, find the numbers.

Answer 1

So here is what we know:

• Smaller number = x
• Larger number = 3x - 7
• Sum (Total value after addition) of the numbers = 61

Using what we know, our equation is
`3x-7+x=61` .

Firstly, combine like terms:
`4x-7=61`

Next, add 7 on both sides:
`4x=68`

Next, divide both sides by 4 and the smaller number is
`x=17`

Now to find the larger number, plug 17 into the larger number expression to solve:

`3* 17-7\\51-7\\44`

In short, the smaller number is 17 and the larger number is 44.