Question

The first number of three consecutive even integers equals the sum of the second and third. Find the three numbers.

If x represents the smallest integer, then which of the following equations could be used to solve the problem?

Answer 1

2x+2=x+4

Explanation:

Answer 2

The first integer (x) is equal to the consecutive even integers, x+2, x+4.

x = (x+2) + (x+4)

x = 2x + 6

x - 6 = 2x

x = -6 (First integer)

+2

-4 (Second integer)

+4

-2 (Third integer)

Integers: -6, -4, -2

Equation: x = (x+2) + (x+4)