The sum of three numbers is 85 the second number is 2 times the first the 3rd is 16 less than the second what is the second number ?

Answer 1

Hello Lily,

So, first we want to assign some expressions for these numbers, fair enough?

x = the first number <----the first number is not identified in the problem

2x = the second number <----the second number is 2 times the first

2x - 16 = the third number <----the third number is 16 less than the second

Now, we are told the sum of these three expressions will be 85, okay?

x + 2x + 2x - 16 = 85 <----let's combine like terms

5x -16 = 85 <----let's solve for x, okay?

5x = 101

x = 20.20 <----the first number

Now, let's substitute our value of x, to determine the other numbers.

2x = 2 (20.2) = 40.4 <----the second number

2x - 16 = 2(20.2) -16 = 40.4 -16 = 24.4 <----the third number

Now, let's check our work, okay?

20.20

40.40

24.40

-------

85.00

Yes, the number's check and the solution is valid.

I hope this assists you and that you have a great week. Should you have any feedback or further questions on this solution, please feel free to post under this solution in the comment section. If you need further assistance, please feel free to reach out to any tutor. Best!