Final answer:
The mathematical problem as presented is unsolvable because subtracting or adding different values to the same number cannot result in equality. It's likely there is a typo or misunderstanding in the question. Further clarification is needed to provide an accurate answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question presents a mathematical problem where a number must be found that satisfies the condition that decreasing this number by 18 is equal to increasing the same number by 5. To solve this, let's represent the unknown number as n. The condition can be written as two equations: n - 18 = n + 5 and n = n. Subtracting n from both sides in the first equation gives us -18 = 5, which is not a valid scenario as no such number exists that can satisfy this condition. Hence, it appears there might be a misunderstanding in the question or a typo.
If the question meant that the product of a number times 18 less is the same as the product of the number times 5 more, then it would be written as n * (x - 18) = n * (x + 5). Solving for x would give us the correct amount when the two products are the same. However, without the proper context or correct figures, we cannot provide a definitive answer to the student's question.