Question

The sum of two numbers is -5 and their difference is -1. Find the two
numbers.

Answer 1

Answer: -2 and -3

Explanation:

• Number #1 = x
• Number #2 = y

x + y = -5

x - y = -1 -> x = y - 1

(y - 1) + y = -5

y - 1 + y = -5

2y = 1 - 5

2y = -4

y = -2

x = y - 1 = -2 - 1 = -3

Answer 2

x=-3 and y=-2

Explanation:

let the numbers be x and y

x+y=-5

x-y=-1

therefore x=-5-y

-5-y-y=-1

-2y=-1+5

-2y=4

y=-2

×=-5-(-2)

x=-5+2

x=-3