Question

6) The sum of three consecutive even numbers is 96.

What is the smallest of the three numbers ?

Answer 1

30

Explanation:

Consecutive even numbers can be written as X,X+2,X+4,X+6, and so forth. You only have three consecutive even numbers that equal 96, so write the following equation:

X+X+2+X+4=96

1) Combine alike terms:

3X+6=96

2) Subtract 6 from both sides:

3X=90

3) Divide both sides by 3:

X=30

Now plug in 30 for each of the consecutive even numbers' equations:

X=30

X+2=32

X+4=34

The smallest of these three numbers is 30, therefore the answer is 30!