larger of 2 numbers is 12 more than the smaller number. if the sum of the 2 numbers is 74 find the 2 | MathCelebrity Forum

larger of 2 numbers is 12 more than the smaller number. if the sum of the 2 numbers is 74 find the 2

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larger of 2 numbers is 12 more than the smaller number. if the sum of the 2 numbers is 74 find the 2 numbers

Declare Variables for each number:
  • Let l be the larger number
  • Let s be the smaller number
We're given two equations:
  1. l = s + 12
  2. l + s = 74
Equation (1) already has l solved for. Substitute equation (1) into equation (2) for l:
s + 12 + s = 74

Solve for s in the equation s + 12 + s = 74

Step 1: Group the s terms on the left hand side:
(1 + 1)s = 2s

Step 2: Form modified equation
2s + 12 = + 74

Step 3: Group constants:
We need to group our constants 12 and 74. To do that, we subtract 12 from both sides
2s + 12 - 12 = 74 - 12

Step 4: Cancel 12 on the left side:
2s = 62

Step 5: Divide each side of the equation by 2
2s/2 = 62/2
s = 31

To solve for l, we substitute in s = 31 into equation (1):
l = 31 + 12
l = 43
 
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