To model the problem containing an unknown number, translate the statement into an equation. Sixteen is five less than a number. Which steps would you take to translate the statement? Replace "is" with =, "less than" with -, and "a number" with n to get 16 = 5 - n. Replace "is" with =, "less than" with +, and "a number" with n to get 16 = n + 5. Replace "is" with =, "less than" with -, and "a number" with n to get 16 = n - 5. Replace "is" with =, "less than" with , and "a number" with n to get 16 = 5 n