The Patriots beat the Dolphins by 16 points. Together the teams scored 42 points.

Question

The Patriots beat the Dolphins by 16 points.  Together the teams scored 42 points.

Answer 1

Here's what we know already:

P + D = 42

D + 16 = P

 

Since we have a value of P, we can plug that into the original equation:

D + 16 + D = 42

 

Now we isolate D:

(2D + 16) - 16 = 42 - 16

2D / 2 = 26 /2

D = 13

 

D + 16 = P

13 + 16 = P

29 = P

 

Now to put these values into our original equation to see if it fits:

29 + 13 = 42

42 = 42

 

So:

Dolphins got 13, and Patriots got 29 points.

Answer 2

Total points is 42

Patriots beat Dolphins by 16

 

let x be patriots score:

let y be dolphins score:

 

x + Y = 42

 

x = y + 16

 

y + 16  + y = 42

 

2y + 16 = 42

 

2y = 26

 

y = 13

x = 13 + 16 = 29

 

Dolphins 13, Patriots 29