SOLUTION: Why would we divide by two in this problem, the sum of two numbers is 13. Their difference is 3. What are the numbers?

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Question 1100722: Why would we divide by two in this problem, the sum of two numbers is 13. Their difference is 3. What are the numbers?
Found 2 solutions by ikleyn, richwmiller:
Answer by ikleyn(52908)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.
The condition says

x + y = 13,
x - y =  3.
------------------- Add the two equations (both sides).  "y" will cancel, and you will get


2x = 13 + 3,

which implies

x =  =  = 8.


THIS IS WHY WE DIVIDE BY 2.



Answer by richwmiller(17219)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x+y=13
x-y=3
add
2x=16 divide by 2
x=8
x+y=13
8+y=13
y=5
check
x-y=3
8-5=3
ok


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