The difference of 2 positive numbers is 54. The quotient obtained on dividing the 1 by the other is

The difference of 2 positive numbers is 54. The quotient obtained on dividing the 1 by the other is 4. Find the numbers.

Let the numbers be x and y. We have:

• x - y = 54
• x/y = 4
• Cross multiply x/y = 4 to get x = 4y
• Now substitute x = 4y into the first equation
• (4y) - y = 54
• 3y = 54
• Divide each side by 3
• y = 18
• If x = 4y, then x = 4(18)
• x = 72