Question

One-half the sum of two consecutive odd integers is −12. Find the smallest integer.

Answer 1

Explanation:

Let the larger integer = 2x + 1

Let the second integer = 2x - 1

1/2 (2x + 1 + 2x - 1) = - 12 Combine the left

1/2(4x) = - 12 Combine 1/2 (4x)

2x = - 12 Divide by 2

2x/2 = - 12/2

x = - 6

2x + 1 = 2*-6 + 1 = -11

2x - 1 = 2*-6 - 1 = - 13

Check

-11 + - 13 = - 24

1/2(-24) = -12 which checks.