the sum of two numbers is 17. if one number is subtracted from the other, their difference is -3.
i have to write a system of equations with this problem.
thanks.

Question

the sum of two numbers is 17. if one number is subtracted from the other, their difference is -3.
i have to write a system of equations with this problem.
thanks.

mathstudent55 · Answer

Call one number x and the other y.
How do you reporesent the following statement with an equation using x and y?
"the sum of two numbers is 17"

anonymous · Answer

x+y=17

mathstudent55 · Answer

good.
You have 1 equation. now we need a second equation.

anonymous · Answer

x+y=17
x-y=-3

mathstudent55 · Answer

You got it. That's your system of equations.

anonymous · Answer

ok. I got 7,10. is it right?

mathstudent55 · Answer

x + y = 17
x  - y = -3
------------(add equations)
2x     = 14
x = 7
Substitute x = 7 into first eq:
7 + y = 17
y = 10
7 and 10 is the correct answer