The sum of two consecutive whole numbers is greater that 41. Give the least value of the smaller number.

Question

Having trouble with this problem can't seem to solve it.

Answer 1

Let the two consecutive whole numbers be x and (x+1).

 

  "The sum of two consecutive whole numbers is greater that 41"   means

                       (x) + (x+1) > 41

                         2x + 1 > 41

                          2x > 40

                            x > 20

         x must be 21,    Note: (x+1)=22

Answer 2

Let the smaller be x, and the larger be x+1

x+x+1=41

2x=40

x=20

so the smaller is 20.