When solving algebraic word problems, we first set a variable to what we are trying to find. Then some "then" statements.
Let x = the smaller number
Then x + 8 = the bigger number
The sum of x and x + 8 is 102.
x + x + 8 = 102
Solve for x.
x + x + 8 = 102
2x + 8 = 102 <--- Combine like terms
2x = 94 <--- Subtract each side by 8
x = 47
Then the bigger number is 47 + 8 or 55.
So, the two numbers are 47 and 55.
