Answer:
c) 4
Explanation:
The sum of two numbers is 14. The larger number minus three times the lesser number is -2
To solve this question, we need to write the statement mathematically;
Let the two numbers be x and y
"The sum of two numbers is 14" can be mathematically written as x+y = 14
and
"The larger number minus three times the lesser number is -2" can be mathematically written as x - 3y = -2
x + y = 14 ------------------(1)
x - 3y= -2 -------------------(2)
Subtract equation (2) from equation (1)
[x - x = 0 y - (-3y)=4y 14-(-2)=16]
4y = 16
To get the value of y divide both-side of the equation by 4
4y/4 = 16/4
y = 4
Substitute y=4 into equation (1)
x + y =14
x +4 =14
Subtract 4 from both-side of the equation
x + 4 -4 = 10]-4
x = 10
x=10 and y =4
Therefore the lesser number is 4