How can I find two numbers if the sum is 12 and their difference is 4?

To find the two numbers, let’s denote them as x and y. According to the problem, we have the following two equations:

1. The sum of the two numbers: x + y = 12
2. The difference of the two numbers: x – y = 4

We can solve this system of equations step by step.

Step 1: Solve for one variable

Let’s solve the second equation for x:

x = y + 4

Step 2: Substitute in the first equation

Next, we will substitute x in the first equation:

(y + 4) + y = 12

Step 3: Simplify and solve

Combining like terms gives us:

2y + 4 = 12

Now, subtract 4 from both sides:

2y = 8

Then divide by 2:

y = 4

Step 4: Find x

Now that we have the value of y, we can find the value of x using the equation we derived:

x = y + 4 = 4 + 4 = 8

Conclusion

Thus, the two numbers are:

• x = 8
• y = 4

So, the two numbers you’re looking for are 8 and 4!