the sum of three consecutive number is 312. find the smallest of the three

Question

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Answer 1

Lets assign variables for these numbers.

 

Let the first number = x

Let the second number = x + 1

Let the third number = x + 2

 

 

Now, we set up an equation using these variables.

 

x + x + 1 + x + 2 = 312

 

 

Combine like terms.

 

3x + 3 = 312

 

 

Subtract 3 on both sides of equation.

 

3x = 309

 

 

Divide both sides of equation by 3.

 

x = 103

 

 

Substitute this value of x into the variable that represents the smallest number.  The smallest number is the first number.

 

Therefore, the number is 103.

 

Answer 2

a + b + c = 312

a = b - 1

c = b + 1

 

b - 1 + b + b + 1 = 312

3b -1 + 1 = 312

3b = 312

b = 104

 

a = 104 - 1

a = 103