From the information in the word problem we are able to set up the following inequality:
3y + 2 - y = 12 | where x is the larger number of two numbers in a set (x, y)
We know this because the problem states that [x = 3y + 2] or 3 times the smaller number plus two.
We also know that x - y = 12.
So, we substitute x in [x - y = 12] with 3y + 2 that we found out above, and we get the following:
3y + 2 - y = 12
Now, we solve the inequality
3y + 2 - y = 12
-> subtract 2 from both sides :: 3y - y = 10
-> subtract y from 3y :: 2y = 10
-> divide both sides by 2 :: y = 5
So now we have y, the smaller number, which is equal to 5. Next, to find x we simply plug y=5 back in to either the value of x, [3y + 2], or the inequality of x - y = 12. I will show both:
x - y = 12
-> substitute y for 5 :: x - 5 = 12
-> add 5 to both sides :: x = 17
OR
3y + 2 = x
-> substitute y with 5 :: 3(5) + 2 = x
-> multiply 3, 5 :: 15 + 2 = x
-> add 15, 2 :: 17 = x
So there you have it:
x = 17 , y = 5
You can go back and use these values to check your answer and make sure they work with the word problem.
Remember to look for the setup to an inequality in the word problem. Anything that says BLANK times this number, or 4 less than that number, is trying to set you up with an inequality problem.
(just another form of the equation)
brainliest will be appreciated as well