Question

The sum of two numbers is 14. The larger number minus three times the lesser number is -2. What is the lesser number?

Answer 1

Answer:

c) 4

Step-by-step explanation:

The sum of two numbers is 14. The larger number minus three times the lesser number is -2

To solve this question, we need to write the statement mathematically;

Let the two numbers be x and y

"The sum of two numbers is 14" can be mathematically written as x+y = 14

and

"The larger number minus three times the lesser number is -2" can be mathematically written as x -  3y  = -2

x + y = 14  ------------------(1)

x - 3y= -2 -------------------(2)

Subtract equation (2) from equation (1)

[x - x = 0          y - (-3y)=4y     14-(-2)=16]

4y  = 16

To get the value of y divide both-side of the equation by 4

4y/4 = 16/4

y  =   4

Substitute y=4 into equation (1)

x + y =14

x +4 =14

Subtract 4 from both-side of the equation

x + 4 -4  = 10]-4

x = 10

x=10 and y =4

Therefore the lesser number is 4