A cord is cut into two pieces of different lengths. The sum of the two lengths is 12 centimeters, and the difference between the two lengths is 4 centimeters. Find the lengths of the two pieces of cord.

Answer 1

x + y = 12
x - y = 4

Add the two equations together to eliminate the y.

2x = 16 x = 8 so y = 4
Check these values in the original equations.