Let the smaller number be \( x \). According to the problem, the larger number is \( x + 6 \).
We know from the problem that the sum of the two numbers is 46, so we can set up the equation:
\[ x + (x + 6) = 46 \]
Now, simplify and solve for \( x \):
\[ 2x + 6 = 46 \]
Subtract 6 from both sides:
\[ 2x = 40 \]
Now, divide by 2:
\[ x = 20 \]
Now that we have the smaller number, we can find the larger number:
\[ x + 6 = 20 + 6 = 26 \]
Thus, the two numbers are:
- Smaller number: \( 20 \)
- Larger number: \( 26 \)
In conclusion, the numbers are 20 and 26.