Question

One number exceeds another by 16. The sum of the numbers is 54. What are the numbers?

Answer 1

• Answer: 19 and 35

Explanation:

This can be solved using an algebraic expression.

The following equation uses the variable n for the number we need to find, 16 as the number given, and 54 as the sum of everything in the equation.

`n + (n+16) = 54`

Combine like terms

`2n + 16 = 54`

subtract 16 on bother sides

`2n + 16-16 = 54-16`

2n + 0 = 38

can also be written as:

`2n = 38`

now divide both sides by 2 to cancel out the 2 in "2n"

`(2n)/(2) = (38)/(2)`

n = 19

Plug the new n into the equation

`19 + (19+16) = 54`

Determine if true by solving

Add what's in parentheses

19 + (19+16) = 54

Add the remaining

19 + 35 = 54

The equation is true

54 = 54

So your two numbers are 19 and 35