Two numbers have a sum of 15 and one is 2/3 (two thirds) of the other. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

One number is x

The other number is y

x + y = 15

y = 2/3x, therefore

x + (2/3x) = 15

Step 1: Simplify both sides of the equation.

(x+2/3x) = 15 (Combine Like Terms)

5/3x = 15

Step 2: Multiply both sides by 3/5

(3/5) ⋅ (5/3x) = (3/5) ⋅ (15)

Therefore ... x = 9

Remember that y = 2/3x?

So, y = (2/3) ⋅ 9 = 6