The sum of two numbers is 14 and the ratio of the two numbers is −3 . What is the product of the two numbers?

Explanation

Let's solve the problem step by step:First, let the two numbers be x and y. We are given:x + y = 14andx/y = -3From the ratio x/y = -3, we can express x as x = -3y.Substitute x = -3y into the sum equation:-3y + y = 14This simplifies to:-2y = 14Solving for y gives:y = -7Now, substitute y = -7 back into x = -3y:x = -3(-7) = 21The two numbers are 21 and -7. Their product is:21 × (-7) = -147Therefore, the answer is D) -147.Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they result from errors in the substitution or arithmetic process.