what two numbers that total up to 38 but its difference is 16

Question

the larger number is...

the smaller number is....

Answer 1

Let the numbers are x,y.

Total of the numbers is x+y = 38 ---> (1)

Difference of the numbers is x-y = 16 ---> (2)

To eliminate the y value add the (1)&(2).

x+y = 38

x-y = 16

_________

2x = 54

Divide to each side by 2.

2x/2 = 54/2

x = 27

Substitute the x value in (1).

27+y = 38

Subtract 27 from each side.

y = 38-27

y = 11

The larger number is 27.

The smaller number is 11.