Question

If `x-5y=37` and `x` and `y` are positive integers, what is the least possible value of `x`?

Answer 1

`x=42`

Explanation:

Reading the equation tells us that `x` has to quite a big number, because after subtracting 5y's we end up with 37.

Change the equation to `x = 37+5y`

The smallest positive integer which `y` can be is `1`,

`x = 37 + 5(1) = 42`