Question

One number exceeds another by 26. the sum of the numbers is 58. what are the numbers

Answer 1

first number = X

second number = x +26  ( exceeds means higher so add 26)

x + x+26 = 58

combine like terms:

2x + 26 = 58
 subtract 26 from each side:

2x = 58-26

2x = 32

divide both sides by 2:
x = 32/2
x = 16

first number is 16
second number = 16+26 = 42