To solve the problem, we need to set up an equation based on the given information.
1. Identify Variables:
- Let the smaller number be [tex]\( x \)[/tex].
2. Express the Greater Number in Terms of the Smaller Number:
- The greater number is 5 more than the smaller number, so it can be written as [tex]\( x + 5 \)[/tex].
3. Set Up the Equation:
- We know that the sum of the two numbers is 77. Therefore, we can write:
[tex]\[
x + (x + 5) = 77
\][/tex]
This equation best represents the relationship and conditions described in the problem. Therefore, the correct equation to use for solving the smaller number is:
[tex]\[ x + (x + 5) = 77 \][/tex]