Question

If x and y are consecutive positive integers and x2 – y2 = 11, what is the value of y?

E. 1
F. 3
G. 5
H. 6

please provide explanation

Answer 1

y = 5

Explanation:

We khow that x and y are consecutive integers and that x^2 is greater than y^2 since x^2-y^2=11

● so x is greater than y

● wich means that x = y+1

● x^2-y^2=11

● (y+1)^2-y^2 = 11

● y^2+2y+1-y^2=11

● 2y + 1 = 11

● 2y +1-1 = 11-1

● 2y = 10

●2y/2 = 10/2

● y = 5