Stuck on Math Problem: Find the Integers

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding two integers based on given conditions: their sum is twenty, and a relationship between five times the smaller integer and twice the larger integer is provided. The original poster expresses confusion in setting up the equations correctly.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to define the integers as variables and set up equations based on the problem statement. Some participants question the setup of the equations and suggest reconsidering the interpretation of the relationships given in the problem.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the original poster's misunderstandings regarding the equation setup. Some guidance has been offered to help correct the interpretation of the problem, leading to a more accurate formulation of the equations.

Contextual Notes

The original poster acknowledges a misreading of the problem, which contributed to the confusion in their initial approach. There is an indication of a late-night study session affecting clarity.

kuahji
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The sum of two intergers is twenty. Five times the smaller interger is two more than twice the larger integer. Find the integers.

I'm somehow lost on the problem

I tried setting the problem up to solve for the smaller varrible. Making it x & the larger 20-x. Anyway, I came up with 5x + 2 = 40 - 2x, then 7x = 38... Somewhere I really got screwed up. I know the answers are 6 & 14 but I can't seem to figure out how to setup the problem.
 
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It says "Five times the smaller integer is two more than twice the larger integer"

You wrote that as 5x+2=2(20-x), which is saying "five times the smaller integer plus two is equal to twice the larger integer"

Do you see where you made your mistake now?
 
Last edited:
Note that if x= 8 y= 6, then x is "two more than" y but x+ 2= 10, not 6. You are "going the wrong way". Instead of 5x+ 2, what should you have?
 
Yes, I got it now. It was late & I miss read the problem. It was 5x = 40-2x+2 which gave me 7x = 42 & the two integers are 6 & 14. Thanks. :approve:
 

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