Answer:
5
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve this problem, we need to set up a system of equations. Let x represent the larger number and y represent the smaller number.
x + y = 17
x - y = 7
We can solve this system by adding them together. The y cancels out because y + (-y) = 0. After that, we solve for x
2x = 24
x = 12 (Divide both sides by 2)
Now that we know the value of x, we can substitute it into one of our original equations to solve for y.
12 + y = 17
y = 5 (Subtract 12 from both sides)
So, the smaller number is 5.
