One-third of a number, decreased by 36, is at most 22 find the number

x = 174, and x < 174.

Let the number be x.

Then 1/3 of the number = 1/3*x

1/3*x is decreased by 36 is the same as 1/3*x - 36

If 1/3*x - 36 is at most 22, we can write:

1/3*x - 36 is less than or equal to 22.

Therefore,

1/3*x - 36 <= 22

1/3*x - 36 = 22 (i), and 1/3*x - 36 < 22 (ii)

From (i):

1/3*x = 22 + 36 = 58, or x = 58 * 3 = 174.

From (ii):

1/3*x < 22 + 36 = 58, or x < 58 * 3 , or x < 174.

Therefore,

x = 174, and x < 174.

irrational, cannot