word problems

[Guest]

the sum of 2 numbers is 23. twice the greater number added to three times the smaller number is 57.

 

[Mrspi]

the sum of 2 numbers is 23. twice the greater number added to three times the smaller number is 57.

You can solve this problem using a system of two equations in two variables. Start by defining the variables:

Let b = bigger number
Let s = smaller number

The sum of the two numbers is 23, so
b + s = 23

Twice the greater number is 2b, and three times the smaller number is 3s. When twice the greater number is added to three times the smaller number, the result is 57. So,
2b + 3s = 57

Here's our system:
b + s = 23
2b + 3s = 57

Solve it by your favorite method......

 

[Guest]

i still dont understand

 

[Mrspi]

i still dont understand

Ok.....maybe you have not studied systems of equations yet. Let's try it using just one variable.

let b = bigger number

Now, the two numbers add up to 23. If the bigger one is b, then the other (smaller one) is 23 - b.

Twice the bigger number is 2b.
Three times the smaller number is 3(23 - b).

Twice the bigger number added to three times the smaller number is 57.
2b + 3(23 - b) = 57

Can you solve that one?