Math Problem Statement

Two numbers have a sum of 14. four times the larger number is 4 less than 6 times the smaller number. What are the numbers

Solution

Let's denote the two numbers as xx and yy, where xx is the larger number and yy is the smaller number.

We are given two conditions:

  1. The sum of the two numbers is 14: x + y = 14 \tag{1}
  2. Four times the larger number is 4 less than six times the smaller number: 4x = 6y - 4 \tag{2}

Step 1: Solve for one variable from Equation (1)

From equation (1), we can express xx in terms of yy: x=14yx = 14 - y

Step 2: Substitute this expression into Equation (2)

Substitute x=14yx = 14 - y into equation (2): 4(14y)=6y44(14 - y) = 6y - 4

Step 3: Simplify the equation

Expand the left-hand side: 564y=6y456 - 4y = 6y - 4

Step 4: Solve for yy

Move all terms involving yy to one side: 56+4=6y+4y56 + 4 = 6y + 4y 60=10y60 = 10y y=6y = 6

Step 5: Solve for xx

Now that we know y=6y = 6, substitute this back into equation (1) to find xx: x+6=14x + 6 = 14 x=8x = 8

Final Answer:

The two numbers are x=8x = 8 and y=6y = 6.

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How would the solution change if the sum of the two numbers were 20 instead of 14?
  2. What if the condition was 4 times the smaller number is 6 less than 6 times the larger number?
  3. Can you generalize this method for any sum and similar conditions?
  4. What happens if we swap the terms for the larger and smaller number in the second condition?
  5. How can this be represented graphically?

Tip: For word problems, always try to translate the problem into equations by identifying the relationships between the quantities.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Systems of Equations

Formulas

Sum equation: x + y = 14
Linear relationship: 4x = 6y - 4

Theorems

Basic algebraic manipulation

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10