Question

There are two mystery numbers. The sum of 2 times the first number and 3 times the second number is -18. The sum of 3 times the first number and 2 times the second number is -17. What are the two numbers?

Answer 1

-3 and -4

Explanation:

x = 1st number

y = 2nd number

set up system of equations:

2x + 3y = -18

3x + 2y = -17

elimination method: multiply 1st equation by -2 and second by 3

-4x - 6y = 36

+

9x + 6y = -51

5x = -15

x = -3

find y: 2(-3) + 3y = -18

-6 + 3y = -18

3y = -12

y = -4