Question

The sum of two numbers is 100, the difference between the two numbers is 26. What is the number that is less?

Answer 1

Let the numbers be x and y

x + y = 100
-
x - y  =  26
________
0x + 2y = 74

2y = 74

y = 74/2 = 37

y is actually the less number = 37. The second equation tells y is lesser.    

Answer 2

37 because 63+37=100 and 63-37=26