The sum of two numbers is 47. If there difference is 21, find the smaller number

13 , 35

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's call one of the number x and the other y

x + y = 47

x - y = 21 and x = 21 + y if we use this expression in the first equation instead of x we can find the value of y

x + y = 47 ➡ y + y + 21 = 47 add like terms

2y +21 = 47

2y = 47 - 21

2y = 26

y = 13 the value of first number is 13

x + y = 47 we know y is 13 so we can replace it

x + 13 = 47

x = 35