Question 1145373
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x*(x+1) = x^2 - 5


x^2 + x = x^2 - 5


x = -5  is the lesser number.


x = -4  is your <U>ANSWER</U>.


<U>CHECK</U>.  a)  (-5)*(-4) = 20.    b)  (-5)*(-5) - 5 = 25 - 5 = 20.

        ! Correct !
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Solved, answered and completed.  And explained.