Answer:
Equation: x + (x + 1) + (x + 2) + (x + 3)
First number: 19
Next three numbers: 20, 21, 22
Explanation:
Consecutive numbers are numbers that are are next to each other. In this case, the problem is referring to integers that are in ascending order. In essence, each number in this pattern will be one greater than the last. If one calls the first number (x), then one can represent the sum of the four consecutive numbers with the following:
x + (x + 1) + (x + 2) + (x + 3)
It is given that the sum of these number is (82), therefore one can form an equation and solve:
x + (x + 1) + (x + 2) + (x + 3) = 82
Simplify,
x + x + 1 + x + 2 + x + 3 = 82
4x + 6 = 82
Inverse operations:
4x + 6 = 82
4x = 76
x = 19
Succeding numbers in this pattern:
20, 21, 22