Question

The larger of two numbers is five more than the smaller number. If the sum of the numbers is 59, find the numbers

Answer 1

27 and 32.

Explanation:

Let the two numbers be A and B.

The larger number (let's use B) is 5 more than the smaller one (A). In other words:

`B=5+A`

Their sum is 59. So:

`A+B=59`

This is a system of equations. Solve by substituting the first equation into the second. Thus:

`A+(5+A)=59`

Combine like terms:

`2A+5=59`

Subtract 5 from both sides:

`2A=54`

Divide both sides by 2:

`A=27`

So, the smaller number is 27.

This means that the bigger number is 27+5=32.

So, the two numbers are 27 and 32.

And we're done!