Question

Can someone help me solve these word problems?

The sum of two numbers is 8 less than twice the first number. Their difference is 4 less than twice the second number.

Answer 1

As you read this word problem try to pronounce it out.

The SUM (+) is 8 > 2(1st number). Lets say the first number is x.
The difference (-) is 4 < 2( 2nd number) Lets the say the second number is y.

So we'll write th equations like this:

a+x=2a - 8
a-x= 2x - 4
Subract 2 a from both sides of the first equation=

. x-a= -8

add x-a=-8 by the second equation.

+ 12 to both sides.
2x=8+4
2x=12
x=6

we end up with 6-a=-8

now we have x-8=-8 & 6-8=-8

add 8 to both of the sides which we'll get a = 14.

now just plug in the answers to make sure.

a = 14 & x = 6