The larger of two numbers is seven less than three times the smaller number. If the sum of the number is 61, find the numbers.

Answer 1

Let the numbers be X and Y, where X is the larger number.

Then (1) X = 3Y - 7 and

(2) X + Y = 61

Substituting for X in (2) gives

3Y - 7 + Y = 61

4Y - 7 = 61

Adding 7 to both sides gives

4Y = 68

and dividing both sides by 4 gives Y = 68/4 = 17

Substituting for Y in (1) gives

X = 17 x 3 - 7 = 44

Therefore the two numbers are 17 and 44

Answer 2

S + L = 61

L = 3S - 7

S + 3S - 7 = 61

4S = 68

You finish it!