Answer:
The lesser number is y=4
Step-by-step explanation:
Given : The sum of two numbers is 14. the larger number minus three times the lesser number -2.
To find : What is the lesser number?
Solution :
Let the two numbers be x and y,
The sum of two numbers is 14
i.e. \(x+y=14\) ....(1)
Let x be the larger number and y be the smaller number.
So, the larger number minus three times the lesser number -2
i.e. \(x-3y=-2\) ...(2)
Solving equation (1) and (2)
Substitute x from (1) into (2)
\(x-3y=-2\)
\((14-y)-3y=-2\)
\(-y-3y=-2-14\)
\(-4y=-16\)
\(y=4\)
Put in equation (1)
\(x+y=14\)
\(x+4=14\)
\(x=10\)
Therefore, The lesser number is y=4 and larger number is x=10.
