The difference between two numbers is 34. The larger exceeds 3 times the smaller by 4. Find the numbers . Use let statements

Answer 1

Let x = smaller number, then 3x+4 = larger.

(3x+4) - x = 34

Solve for x.

Answer 2

(3x+4)-x=34
3x-x+4=34
2x+4=34
-4 -4
2x=30
divide both sides by 2
x=30

Answer 3

(3x+4)-x=34
3x-x+4=34
2x+4=34
-4 -4
2x=30
divide both sides by 2
x=15