Question

The sum of two numbers is 42. If one third of one number is 5 greater than one sixth of another number, which of

the following is the smaller number?

Answer 1

The answer is 22. Sorry if I am wrong

Answer 2

18

Explanation:

Let's use x and y

x + y = 42

1/3x = 1/6y + 5

Multiply by 3 on both sides

x = 1/2y + 15

SUBSTITUTE X

1/2y + 15 + y = 42

Combine the two ys

1 1/2y + 15 = 42

minus 15 on both sides

1 1/2y = 27

y = 18

Now, find x by substituting y

x + y = 42

x + 18 = 42

x = 24

X is the greater number, y is the smaller number.

The smaller number is 18