What are the two numbers that are in the ratio of 56, and change to a ratio of 45 when 8 is subtracted from each?

To find the two numbers based on the given conditions, let’s denote the two numbers as x and y. According to the problem, the numbers are in the ratio of 56, which can be expressed mathematically as:

x/y = 56

From this, we can express x in terms of y:

x = 56y

Now, the problem states that if 8 is subtracted from each number, the ratio becomes 45:

(x – 8)/(y – 8) = 45

Substituting x = 56y into the second equation gives:

(56y – 8)/(y – 8) = 45

Cross-multiplying to eliminate the fraction, we have:

56y – 8 = 45(y – 8)

Expanding the right side:

56y – 8 = 45y – 360

Now, to isolate y, we will move all terms involving y to one side and the constant terms to the other:

56y – 45y = -360 + 8

11y = -352

Dividing both sides by 11 gives:

y = -32

Now substituting back to find x:

x = 56 * -32 = -1792

So, the two numbers are:

x = -1792 and y = -32.

To verify, check the ratios:

The original ratio is:

-1792 / -32 = 56

After subtracting 8 from each:

(-1792 – 8)/(-32 – 8) = -1800 / -40 = 45

Both conditions are satisfied, thus the two numbers are:

-1792 and -32.

Leave a Comment