One number exceeds another by 21. The sum of the numbers is 53. What are the two numbers

If you could tell me the two numbers, that would be great.

Just solve it by trial and error.


Does 1 + 22 equal 53? Nope?

(We start here because the difference must be 21.)

Does 2 + 23 equal 53? Nope.
Does 3 + 24 equal 53? Nope.

Eventually you will get to...

Does 16 + 37 equal 53?

Yep.

There ya go.

Make two equations from the info given to you , then equate them :
x-y = 21 ------1.
x+y= 53--------2
.
Adding both eq
2x = 74
x= 74/2 = 37

Putting x's value in 2nd eq :
y= 53- 37 = 16

32. just find the difference of the two numbers. :)

16 and 37.. took me a couple of tries. haha