The sum of two numbers is 72. The difference between them is 26 find the smaller number

Let's assume the smaller number is x.

The other number must be 26 greater, so it would be x + 26.
According to the problem, their sum is 72:

x + (x + 26) = 72

Simplifying the equation:

2x + 26 = 72
2x = 72 - 26
2x = 46
x = 46/2
x = 23

Therefore, the smaller number is 23.