Question #be0a3

1 Answer
Mar 13, 2017

larger number = 31

Explanation:

Create two equations using two variables:
S = smaller number
L = larger number

equation 1: S + L = 49 and rearrange: S = 49 - L

To make them equal subtract 8 from 2L.

equation 2: 2L -8 = 3S

Substitute equation 1 into equation 2: 2L - 8 = 3(49 - L)

Distribute the right side: 2L - 8 = 147 - 3L

Simplify by adding like terms:
2L +3L -8 = 147 -3L +3L
5L -8 = 147
5L -8 +8 = 147 + 8
5L = 155
L = 155/5 = 31

S = 49 - 31 = 18