The arithmetic mean of two numbers is 6.2. One number is 2.1 times smaller than the other. Find the lower number.

It is known from the condition that the arithmetic mean of two numbers is equal to 6.2. One of these numbers is 2.1 times less than the second. In order to find a smaller number. Let’s denote it using the variable x. Then more can be written as 2.1x.

Now we will compose and solve the resulting linear equation.

The arithmetic mean of numbers is equal to the sum of these numbers divided by their number.

For two numbers, the arithmetic mean can be written as:

m = (a + b) / 2;

Substitute the known values and calculate.

(2.1x + x) / 2 = 6.2;

2.1x + x = 6.2 * 2;

3.1x = 12.4;

x = 12.4: 3.1;

x = 4.

Answer: 4.