The largest of two numbers is 10 less than twice the smaller number. If the sum of the two numbers is 38, find the two numbers.

Question

I'm not very well at word problems. 

Answer 1

Let the larger number = y and the smaller number = x.

 

The largest number is 10 less than twice the smaller number.  Remember that less than means subtract the 10 from the other amount while twice means multiply by two.  Therefore,

 

y = 2x - 10

 

The sum of the two numbers is 38.  Remember sum means add the two numbers to get their result.  Therefore,

 

x + y = 38

 

Since y = 2x - 10, we rewrite the lower equation as:

 

x + (2x - 10) = 38

 

Solving:

 

3x - 10 = 38

3x = 48

x = 16

 

The lesser number is 16 and the greater number is 2(16) - 10 or 22.