Answer:
The smaller number is 27 and the larger number is 44
Step-by-step explanation:
Let x = the larger number
Let y = the smaller number
x + y = 71
x = y + 17 Substitute in y + 17 for x in the first equation.
x + y = 71
y +17 + y = 71 Combine the y's.
2y + 17 = 71 Subtract 17 from both sides of the equation
2y = 54 Divide both sides of the equation by 2
y = 27. Plug 27 in for y for either of the two original equation to find x
x + y = 71
x + 27 = 71 Subtract 27 from both sides of the equation
x = 44