SOLUTION: The sum of two numbers is 90. The larger number is 5 less than 3 times the smaller number. Find the smaller number.

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Question 367948: The sum of two numbers is 90. The larger number is 5 less than 3 times the smaller number. Find the smaller number.

Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi,

Let x represent the smaller number.  Then (90-x) would be the larger.

Write as we Read***

(90-x) = 3x - 5

solving for x

90 - x = 3x - 5

95 = 4x

95/4 = x

23.75 = x, the smaller number



checking our answer

66.25 = 71.25 - 5