The smaller of two numbers is 12 less than the larger. If four times the larger number exceeds three times the smaller by 17, find the numbers.

Answer 1

Hello Tony,

Let x = the smaller number and

y = the larger number.

Then from the first sentence, we have

x = y - 12.

From the second sentence, we have

4y - 3x = 17,

→ 4y - 3(y - 12) = 17

→ 4y - 3y +36 = 17

→ y = -19

→ x = -19 - 12

→ x = -31

→ the smaller number is -31 and the larger number is -19.

Thank you for posting the question with Wyzant, and have a great evening!

Michael Ehlers

Answer 2

Let S = smaller and L = Larger

S = L - 12

4L = 3S + 17

Substitute

4L = 3L - 36 + 17

L = -19

S = -31