how in the world do I figure this out, please explain in detail.
The sum of two numbers is 110. Their difference is 28. What is the smallest of the two numbers? 56
41
69
55

Question

how in the world do I figure this out, please explain in detail.
The sum of two numbers is 110. Their difference is 28. What is the smallest of the two numbers?     56 
   41 
   69 
   55

jdoe0001 · Answer

well
a+ b = 110
a * b = 28

so, is a system of equations
use substitution

say, on the 2nd one,  if you solve for "a", what would that be?

marissalovescats · Answer

Their difference is 28 not their product @jdoe0001

campbell_st · Answer

well actually the sum is 

a + b = 110
a - b = 28 

add the 2 equations together which will allow you to eliminate b

2a = 138

solve for a... this will be the larger of the 2 numbers

jdoe0001 · Answer

ohh darn, ok

jdoe0001 · Answer

misread there

primeralph · Answer

Can I use Number Theory? Please?  |dw:1373236182308:dw|

jdoe0001 · Answer

|dw:1373236448397:dw|