The sum of two numbers is −284. One number is 62 less than the other. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

x + x-62 = -284

2x -62 = -284

x=-111

-111 and -173

Answer 2

Call the 2 numbers X and Y.

From the 1st sentence: X + Y = -284

From the 2nd sentence X = Y - 62

The two equations, with the 2nd one rearranged:

X + Y = -284

X - Y = -62

Add them to get:

2X = -346

X = -173

Plug this into either equation and solve for Y. Then CHECK by plugging both X and Y values into one of the original equations.

The method above is called "combination". You could also use the "substitution" method: Solve either equation for X, then substitute the expression for the X in either equation. Try it!!