Question 670247

Two numbers sum to 32. Twice the larger subtracted from the smaller is -22. Find the numbers. 

I think I have the first part which would be x+y=32.

I have tried the second part as 2x-y=32 and 2x-(1/2)y=32. Neither have worked.

Can you help by showing me how to set up this system based on what the problem says? Thank you!


You're using y to denote the smaller number. You're also using x to denote the larger number. Twice the larger number means 2x, as you indicated, but twice the larger, subtracted from the smaller number means: y - 2x = - 22. 


We now have: {{{system (y + x = 32____eq (i), y - 2x = - 22_____ eq (ii))}}}


Solve this system and you should get your 2 numbers.....Hint: x, or larger number  = {{{highlight_green(18)}}}


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