Answer:
The numbers are 40 and 49
Step-by-step explanation:
Smaller number = x
Larger number = y
Let's write our system of equations:
x + y = 89
3x = y + 71
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x = 89 - y
Substituting x in the 2nd equation and solving for y:
3 (89 - y) = y + 71
267 - 3y = y + 71
-3y - y = 71 - 267 (Like terms)
-4y = - 196
y = -196/-4
y = 49
Solving for x in the 1st equation:
x + y = 89
x + 49 = 89
x = 89 - 49
x = 40
The numbers are 40 and 49