Question

One number is 9 more than another number, and their sum is 17. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

1st number = 4

2nd number = 13

Explanation:

Let the number = y

1st number = y

2nd number = 9 more than the onter number = 9 more than the 1st number

2nd number = 9 + y

The sum of both numbers = 17

1st number + 2nd number = 17

y + (9 + y) = 17

y + 9 + y = 17

collect like terms:

y + y + 9 = 17

2y + 9 = 17

subtract 9 from both sides:

2y + 9 - 9 = 17 - 9

2y + 0 = 8

2y = 8

divide both sides by 2:

2y/2 = 8/2

y = 4

1st number = y = 4

2nd number = 9 + y = 9 + 4

2nd number = 13

To check: 4 + 13 = 17