Question

The sum of two positive numbers is 27, while the difference of their squares is 81. what is the value of the greater of the two numbers?

Options

• 16

• 14

• 12

• 15

Answer 1

15

Explanation:

Let two positive numbers x and y.

x + y = 27  ......(i)

x² – y² = 81  ......(ii)

Solve eqⁿ (i) and (ii)

x – y = 3  ......(iii)

Now, from eqⁿ (i) and (iii)

x + y = 27
x – y = 3
2x = 30

x = 15 and y = 12

So, x = 15 is greater number.