Question 335905
Let x = the smaller number
Let y = the larger number
:
Write an equation for each statement:
"If one-half the smaller of number is increased by one-third the larger number, the result is 2."
{{{1/2}}}x + {{{1/3}}}y = 2
:
"If one-third the smaller number increased by one-ninth the larger number, the result is 1."
{{{1/3}}}x + {{{1/9}}}y = 1
:
Multiply the 1st equation by 6, multiply the 2nd equation by 18
Subtract the 1st resulting equation from the 2nd resulting equation
6x + 2y = 18
3x + 2y = 12
----------------subtracting eliminates y, find x
3x = 6
x = 2
:
Find y using the equation 6x + 2y = 18
6(2) + 2y = 18
2y = 18 - 12
2y = 6
y = 3
:
:
Check solutions in the 1st original equation
{{{1/2}}}(2) + {{{1/3}}}(3) = 2
{{{2/2}}} + {{{3/3}}} = 2; confirms our solutions