Word Problems

Question

Find three consecutive odd integers whose sum is −261. How do i solve this problem step by step?

Answer 1

Consecutive odd integers differ by 2.

 

n = first odd integer

n + 2 = second odd integer

n + 4 = third odd integer

 

n + (n + 2) + (n + 4) = -261

3n + 6 = -261

 

n = (-261 - 6)/3 = -89

 

The numbers are -89, -87, and -85.  Test the answers.