The sum of two numbers is -19. One number is 3 less than 3 times the other. Find the numbers

Question

Can someone help me out by showing me how to do this step by step 

Answer 1

Hi Emily, let x represent one of the numbers. Then the other number is 3x - 3.

 

Equation:

 

x + (3x - 3) = -19

 

4x - 3 = -19

 

4x = -16

 

x = -4

 

One number is -4, the other number is: 3 * (-4 - 3), or -15

 

The two numbers when added equals -19.

 

Questions?