Question

The sum of three consecutive even number is 138. What is the smallest of the three

Answer 1

The sum of three consecutive even numbers is 138. What is smallest of the three numbers ?

Let the three consecutive even numbers be: n

n + 2 and n + 4

Therefore: n + n + 2 + n + 4 = 138

Combine like terms: 3n + 6 = 138

3n + 6 - 6 = 138 - 6

6 - 6 = 0

138 - 6 = 132

3n = 132

Divide each side by 3

3n/3 = 132/3

n = 44

Therefore the three consecutive even numbers are: 44, 46 and 48

Check: 44 + 46 = 90 + 48 = 138

Answer: 44

Hope this helps!