The sum of two numbers is 89.

Question

The sum of two numbers is 89. The difference of the two numbers is 37. What are the two numbers.

Let xx be the larger number and yy be the smaller number.

Write an equation that expresses the information in the sentence "The sum of two numbers is 89."   

Write an equation that expresses the information in the sentence "The difference of the two numbers is 37."   

Solve the system you have written above.

The larger number, xx is . The smaller number, yy is .

Answer 1

You have a system of equations

x+y=89 (sum)

x-y=37 (difference)

Using the elimination method is the quickest way to solve. Add the 2 equations together and solve for x first. Once you know what x is, you can figure out y quickly. Make sure to check that your answer fits in both scenarios. :)

Answer 2

x + y = 89

x - y = 39

Can you solve the system (hint: add the two equations) and answer?