Question

Using Algebra to solve Word Problems

The sum of three consecutive odd numbers is 57. What are the three numbers?

Answer 1

I will answer this question in two different ways.

Method 1:

x + x + 2 + x + 4 = 57

3x + 6 = 57

x + 2 = 19

x = 17

The three numbers are 17, 19, and 21.

Method 2:

57 ÷ 3 = 19

19 - 2 = 17

19 + 2 = 21

The three numbers are 17, 19, and 21.