Question 661024
First write the information as algebraic equations.

the smaller of two numbers is 9 less than the larger gives:
If one number is x, the other number is x-9

The sum is 37:

x+(x-9)=37

(x+x)-9=37
2x-9=37
2x-9=37

To solve this, remember whatever you do to one side, you must do to the other.

2x-9+9=37+9
2x+0=46
2x=46
2x*1/2=46*1/2
x=23

Check it. Is the sum of x and x-9 37?

23 + 14 =37

The numbers are 23 and 14.