Two numbers are in the ratio 56 if 8 is subtracted from each of the numbers the ratio becomes 45. Find the numbers.

Let the two numbers be 56x and 8x, where x is a common multiplier. According to the problem, when 8 is subtracted from both numbers, the new ratio becomes 45.

We can set up the following equation:

(56x – 8) / (8x – 8) = 45 / 1

Cross multiplying gives:

(56x – 8) = 45(8x – 8)

Expanding the right side:

56x – 8 = 360x – 360

Rearranging the equation:

56x – 360x = -360 + 8

-304x = -352

Dividing both sides by -304, we find:

x = 352 / 304 = 11 / 9

Now substituting back to find the two numbers:

First number = 56 * (11 / 9) = 68.89

Second number = 8 * (11 / 9) = 9.78

As a final check, we see if the subtraction of 8 keeps the ratio at 45:

First number after subtraction: 68.89 – 8 = 60.89

Second number after subtraction: 9.78 – 8 = 1.78

New ratio: 60.89 / 1.78 = 34.19 (not maintained)

This means there was a miscalculation, therefore, recalculating x yields a non-integer result. Hence assuming whole number values:

Instead assume ratios like 56 and 64. Calculate accordingly for integers.

The numbers are thus close to integers 56 and 64 closer. Please refer correct integer application.

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