Smaller number = y
Bigger number = x
Sum of the two numbers is 180
x+ y = 180
Difference between the two numbers is 36
x - y = 36
x + y = 180 ---------------- (1)
x - y = 36 ---------------- (2)
(1) + (2):
2x = 216
x = 108
Now that we know x = 108, plug this value into equation (1) to solve for y.
x+ y = 180
108 + y = 180
y = 180 - 108
y = 72
Answer: x = 108, y = 72