Make a system of equation
For an instance, x represents the first angle and y represents the second angle. Make a system of equation for the problem.
"The first angle measures 16° less than the second angle" could be written
⇒ x = y - 16° (first equation)
The two angles are complementary angles, that means the sum of the two angles is equal to 90° or we could write it as
⇒ x + y = 90° (second equation)
Solve the system of equation
We work using substitution method, change x with y-16 in the second equation
x + y = 90°
y - 16° + y = 90°
2y - 16° = 90°
2y = 90° + 16°
2y = 106°
y = 106°/2
y = 53°
The second angle measurement is 53°
Substitute 53 to y in either of both equations
x = y - 16°
x = 53° - 16°
x = 37°
The first angle measurement is 37°
