Ratio, Proportion and Percentages Puzzle – Challenge 30
This is a perfect math puzzle for those who love challenging their brain. The solution is also provided.

Challenge:
The product of two numbers is 216 and their sum is 35. What is their difference?
The Absolute Best Book to challenge your Smart Student!

The correct answer is 19.
Let x be the first number and y the next number. Therefore:
\(xy = 216\) and \(x + y = 35\). Solve the second equation for x:
\(x + y = 35 → x = 35 – y\)
Replace the value of x in the second equation with x in the first equation.
\(xy = 216 → (35 – y) y = 216 →35y – y^2 = 216 →\)
\(y^2 – 35y + 216 = 0\)
Factorize the polynomial: \((y – 8) (y – 27) = 0\)
\(y = 8\) or \(y = 27\)
The difference is 19.
The Absolute Best Books to Ace Algebra
Related to This Article
More math articles
- The Most Complete Guide to Numerical Methods in Differential Equations
- Full-Length SAT Math Practice Test
- FREE 7th Grade MCAS Math Practice Test
- Completing a Table and Make a Graph of Ratios and Rates
- Top 10 Praxis Core Math Practice Questions
- 5th Grade Georgia Milestones Assessment System Math Practice Test Questions
- 3rd Grade PSSA Math Practice Test Questions
- 5th Grade MCAS Math Practice Test Questions
- 3rd Grade MCAS Math Practice Test Questions
- 8th Grade OST Math Practice Test Questions
What people say about "Ratio, Proportion and Percentages Puzzle – Challenge 30 - Effortless Math: We Help Students Learn to LOVE Mathematics"?
No one replied yet.