integers whose difference is -18 and sum is 2

[rachel]

i'm confused on solving this problem and tried several negative numbers to get -18 and sum of 2 but it does not work:
here is the problem.

find two integers whose difference is -18 and the sum is 2.

will you please explain (in middle school language).
thanks!

 

[Denis]

i'm confused on solving this problem and tried several negative numbers to get -18 and sum of 2 but it does not work:
here is the problem.
find two integers whose difference is -18 and the sum is 2.
will you please explain (in middle school language).
thanks!

integers = a,b

a + b = 2 [1]
a - b = -18 [2]

[1] + [2]:
2a = -16
a = -8

Can you get b ?