A number is 12 greater than a second number. The sum of the two numbers is 66. What is the smaller number?

Answer 1

Let N = the second number or the SMALLER number

Larger number is 12 greater than the second number: N + 12

(N + 12) + N = 66 (The LARGER number plus the SMALLER number.)

2N + 12 = 66

2N = 54 (Subtracting 12 from both sides.)

N = 27 (Dividing both sides by 2.)

So, the SMALLER NUMBER IS 27, and that is the answer.

CHECKING:

The smaller number plus 12 equals 27 + 12 = 39.

Does 39 plus 27 equal 66? 39 + 27 = 66.