Question

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

Answer 1

Answer:

The lesser number is y=4

Step-by-step explanation:

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

To find : What is the lesser number?

Solution :

Let the two numbers be x and y,

The sum of two numbers is 14

i.e. $x+y=14$  ....(1)

Let x be the larger number and y be the smaller number.

So, the larger number minus three times the lesser number -2

i.e. $x-3y=-2$ ...(2)

Solving equation (1) and (2)

Substitute x from (1) into (2)

$x-3y=-2$

$(14-y)-3y=-2$

$-y-3y=-2-14$

$-4y=-16$

$y=4$

Put in equation (1)

$x+y=14$

$x+4=14$

$x=10$

Therefore, The lesser number is y=4 and larger number is x=10.

Answer 2

Let's take the 2 numbers are a and b.
a + b =14

if a > b
a - 3b = -2

Subtract both numbers
4b = 16
b = 4

lesser number is 4.