The sum of three consecutive even integers is −312.

Answer 1

First we must make sure we are dealing with even integers. To ensure an integer is even, take any integer and multiply it by 2. Let "x" be any integer, then an even integer will be "2x". Then the next consecutive even integer would be "2x + 2" and the one after that would be "2x + 4". You are told they must add to -312 so:

2x + 2x + 2 + 2x + 4 = -312

Solve by combining like terms to simplify and then using the rules for algebra to solve for "x". Once you get "x", remember you must multiply it by 2 to get the first even integer. Then add 2 to get the next even integer and 2 more to get the 3rd even integer.