Answer: The smaller number is 18
Step-by-step explanation: I set up an equation~
[tex]n+(n-17)=53[/tex]
Solve -
Remove the parentheses and compare the like terms
[tex]2n-17=53[/tex]
Add 17 to both sides
[tex]70=2n[/tex]
Divide both sides by 2
[tex]n=35[/tex]
- Great! Now we know the larger number is 35. Now just subtract 17 from 35 to get your answer of 18.
Check your answer -
[tex]35+18=53[/tex]
So this is correct.
