The sum of two numbers is 59 and the difference is 3. What are the numbers?

31 and 28

Step-by-step explanation:

Let x represent the first number.

Let y represent the second number.

x + y = 59

x - y = 3

Use substitution method to solve.

x = y + 3

y + 3 + y = 59

2y + 3 = 59

Subtract both sides by 3.

2y = 56

Divide both sides by 2.

y = 28

Let's find the second number.

59 - 28 = 31

Check

31 - 28 = 3

Answer The two numbers are 28 and 31.