two numbers diifer (i.e., subtraction) by 57. Their sum is 185. FInd the numbers

Question

choices for smaller number 29, 30, 33. PLEASE HELP

Answer 1

Let one number = x

Let the other number = y

 

Set up to equations based on the information given using these variables.

 

x - y = 57             eq1

x + y = 185             eq2

 

We have a system of equations.

 

Subtract eq2 from eq1 to eliminate the x terms.  This will allow you to solve for y.

 

-2y = -128

 

y = 64

 

Substitute this value of y into eq1 to solve for x.

 

x = 57 + y

x = 57 + 64

x = 57 + 64

x = 121

 

The two numbers are 64 and 121.

 

 

Answer 2

x and x-57 are the numbers (or x and x+57)

x+x-57=185

2x-57=185

2x=185+57

2x=242

x=242/2

x=121

x-57=121-57=64

64 and 121 are the numbers

none of the smaller numbers (in your list of choices) added to 57 gives you 185 !!