Question

The sum of two integers is −47. The greater number minus the lesser number is 9.

Of the two numbers, which is less?

Answer 1

I don't think this question is phrased correctly. The lesser number is the lesser number... I think this is asking you to find each of the numbers, so I will do that.

Greater number: -19

Lesser number: -28

Explanation:

If the greater number minus the lesser number is 9, the greater number is 9 more than the lesser number. I'll use algebra to solve this problem.

Lets set the lesser number as the variable x.

lesser number = x

Because the greater number is 9 more than the lesser number, the greater number is:

x+9

2x+9 = -47

Subtract 9 on both sides to isolate the variable.

2x + 9 - 9 = -47 - 9

2x = -56

x = -28

Because the greater number is 9 greater than the lesser number, add 9 to x to get the greater number.

-28 + 9 = -19