Question

The sum of two numbers is 53. The smaller number is 17 less than the larger number. What is the number?

Answer 1

Answer: The smaller number is 18

Step-by-step explanation: I set up an equation~

`n+(n-17)=53`

Solve -

Remove the parentheses and compare the like terms

`2n-17=53`

Add 17 to both sides

`70=2n`

Divide both sides by 2

`n=35`

• Great! Now we know the larger number is 35. Now just subtract 17 from 35 to get your answer of 18.

Check your answer -

`35+18=53`

So this is correct.

• Hope this helped!~