3 consecutive numbers whose sum is -159

Question

How do I solve these types of problems, we learned how to do it today in school. I am still very confused after a lot of internet research. Please help! Thank you!

Answer 1

Zoe,

 

Let N be the first of three arbitrary numbers.

What is the next consecutive number?  N+1

and the next one after that? N+2

 

What is their sum? N + (N+1) + (N+2) which is equal to -159

 

N + (N+1) + (N+2) = -159

 

Collecting like terms on the left:

 

3N + 3 = -159

 

Subtract 3 from both sides:

 

3N + 3 - 3 = -159 - 3

 

3N = -162

 

Divide both sides by 3:

 

3N/3 = -162/3

 

N = -54 is the first of the consecutive numbers

 

N+1 = -54 + 1 = -53 is the second of the consecutive numbers.

 

N+2 = -54 + 2 = -52 is the third of the consecutive numbers.

 

Michael.