# what is 4 plus 1/2 of number, if sum of numbers is 31?

#### srsd

##### New member
I have a problem that I dont understand. The problem is what is 4 plus 1/2 of a number if the sum of the numbers is 31? would I set it up as:

4 + 1/2x = 31
4 + 1/2x = y

How can I solve the problem? the answer in th book is 13 and 18
How do I get x/y on the same side

#### Subhotosh Khan

##### Super Moderator
Staff member
Re: Al problem

srsd said:
I have a problem that I dont understand. The problem is what is 4 plus 1/2 of a number if the sum of the numbers is 31? would I set it up as:
4 + 1/2x = 31
4 + 1/2x = y

How can I solve the problem? the answer in th book is 13 and 18
How do I get x/y on the same side
Is the problem statement simply:

What is 4 plus 1/2 of a number if the sum of the numbers is 31

Is there anything else said in the problem?

Re: Al problem

That is all

#### Subhotosh Khan

##### Super Moderator
Staff member
Re: Al problem

In that case, how are you getting the second equation ( 4 + 1/2*x = y)? What statement imply existence of that equation?

#### srsd

##### New member
Re: Al problem

I miss stated the problem.....One number is 4 plus 1/2 of a number. The sum of the numbers is 31. Find the numbers.

#### jwpaine

##### Full Member
Re: Al problem

srsd said:
I miss stated the problem.....One number is 4 plus 1/2 of a number. The sum of the numbers is 31. Find the numbers.
You have the word problem, now write it out into an equation.

$$\displaystyle 4 + \frac{1}{2}x = y$$
$$\displaystyle x + y = 31$$

Solve the system.