Question

The sum of three consecutive even integers is -78. What is the smallest integer? Show all working outs (5)

Answer 1

The smallest integer is -27 and the integers are -27, -26, and -25

Explanation:

We can represent this with:

x + x - 1 + x - 2 = -78

Simplify.

3x - 3 = -78

Add 3 to both sides.

3x = -75

Divide both sides by 3.

x = -25

So, the first integer is -25.

Subtract two to get the smallest integer.

-25 - 2 = - 27