One number is three less than another. Their sum is five. Find both numbers.
A) 4, -1
B) 4, 1
C) 5, 0
D) -4, -6
E) -7, 1

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Let x be the larger number and y be the smaller number. We know that x = y + 3 and x + y = 5. Substituting the first equation into the second equation gives (y + 3) + y = 5, which simplifies to 2y + 3 = 5. Solving for y, we get y = 1. Substituting y = 1 into x = y + 3 gives x = 4. Therefore, the two numbers are 4 and 1, which is answer choice B.

One Number Is Three Less Than Another