x= the number of girls competing
x+16=the number of boys competing
The equation to find the number of boys and girls competing would be:
x+(x+16)=1000
First, combine like terms:
2x+16=1000
Subtract 16 from both sides.
2x=984
Divide both sides by 2:
x=492
We know now that the number of girls competing is 492. To find the number of boys competing, you simply have to add 16 to 492.
492+16=508
There are 508 boys competing and 492 girls competing.
I hope this helps :)