need help setting up the algebra equation in this word problem

Question

the two stadiums with the largest cpapcities are marshfield and Bowden stadium. The capacity of marshfield exceeds that of bowden by 6,897 people. Combined, the two stadiums have a cpacity of 210,355 people. find the capacity of each stadium.

Answer 1

Once you understand the question, the first thing to do is create a variable.

 

Let x = the capacity of the smaller stadium, which is bowden.

 

Since the capacity of marshfield exceeds the capacity of bowden by 6897, the capacity of marshfield is x + 6897.

 

So the total capacity of the two is x + x + 6897 = 2x + 6897.

 

You know that's equal to 210355.  So now you have an equation:

 

2x + 6897 = 210355

 

Can you solve that?