Question

Translate to an equation, then solve. The difference between two positive numbers is 20. One number is three times the other number. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

10 and 30

Explanation:

let the 2 numbers be x and y , with x being greater than y , then

x - y = 20 → (2)

x = 3y → (2)

substitute x = 3y into (1)

3y - y = 20 , that is

2y = 20 ( divide both sides by 2 )

y = 10

then

x = 3y = 3 × 10 = 30

The two numbers are 10 and 30