Question

The sum of two numbers is 14. One number is two less than three times the other. Find the numbers.

Short answer

The two numbers are 4 and 10.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Given Information

The sum of two numbers is 14. One number is two less than three times the other.

Step 2. Forming linear equation

Let one number be $x,$then other number will be role="math" localid="1644497329310" $3x-2.$

Sum$=14$

$x+3x-2=14$

Step 3. Solving equation

$$\begin{gathered} x+3x-2=14 \\ 4x=14+2 \\ 4x=16 \\ x=4 \\ thenothernumber=3\times 4-2=10 \end{gathered}$$