Question

The sum of two numbers is 14. Their difference is –146. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

-66, 80

Explanation:

Let x represent the first number. Then the second number is 14-x, and the difference is ...

x - (14-x) = -146

2x = -132 . . . . . . add 14, collect terms

x = -66 . . . . . . . . the first number

14-x = 14-(-66) = 80 . . . . . . the second number

Answer 2

-66 & 80

Explanation:

Let the two numbers be x and y

x + y = 14 (1)

x - y = -146 (2)

Adding (1) & (2),

2x = -132

x = -66

y = 14 - x = 14 - (-66) = 14 + 66

y = 80