Question

A first number plus twice a second number is 15 . Twice the first number plus the second totals 33 . Find the numbers.

The smaller of the two numbers is ?
The larger of the two numbers is ?

Answer 1

Write as a system of equations
X + 2y = 15
2x + y = 33
Multiply the first equation by -2:
-2x - 4y = -30
Now adding this to the second equation er get
-3y = 3
So, y= -1
Now plugging y = -1 in equation 2:

2x -1 = 33
X = 17
Answer
Smallest number is -1 and largest = 17