The difference between two numbers is 15. If 8 is added to twice the greater number, the result is 4 less than 3 times the less number. Find the two numbers

Question

I'm just completely lost and don't understand it

Answer 1

x - y = 15 (The difference between two numbers is 15)

2x + 8 = 3y - 4 (If 8 is added to twice the greater number, the result is 4 less than 3 times the less number)

 

1) Isolate x in equation 1.

 

x = 15+y

 

2) Plug into eq 2 and solve for y.

 

2(15+y) + 8 = 3y-4

30 + 2y + 8 = 3y -4

42 = y

 

3) Solve for x.

 

x = 15 + 42 = 57

 

4) Check your work.

 

2(57) + 8 = 3(42)-4

114 + 8 = 126-4

122 = 122