Math Problem Statement

One number is 55 more than another. The difference between their squares is 6565. What are the numbers?

Solution

Let the two numbers be xx and yy, where xx is 55 more than yy. Thus, we can write the relationship between the two numbers as:

x=y+55x = y + 55

We are also given that the difference between their squares is 6565, which leads to the equation:

x2y2=6565x^2 - y^2 = 6565

Using the difference of squares formula:

x2y2=(xy)(x+y)x^2 - y^2 = (x - y)(x + y)

Substituting x=y+55x = y + 55 into the equation:

(y+55y)(y+55+y)=6565(y + 55 - y)(y + 55 + y) = 6565

This simplifies to:

55(2y+55)=656555(2y + 55) = 6565

Now, divide both sides by 55:

2y+55=656555=1192y + 55 = \frac{6565}{55} = 119

Solve for yy:

2y=119552y = 119 - 55 2y=642y = 64 y=642=32y = \frac{64}{2} = 32

Now, substitute y=32y = 32 into the equation x=y+55x = y + 55:

x=32+55=87x = 32 + 55 = 87

Thus, the two numbers are:

x=87andy=32x = 87 \quad \text{and} \quad y = 32

Would you like more details on any part of the solution? Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How does the difference of squares formula work in other examples?
  2. What happens if the two numbers differ by a different amount, say 100?
  3. Can you derive the same result using another method, such as factoring?
  4. How can you generalize this problem for different numbers?
  5. How can you verify the solution by substituting values back into the original equation?

Tip: Always check your solution by substituting the values back into the original problem to ensure accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Difference of Squares
Linear Equations

Formulas

Difference of squares: a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)
Linear equation: x = y + 55

Theorems

Difference of Squares Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10