Question

The sum of two consecutive mile markers on the interstate is 417417. Find the numbers on the markers

Answer 1

Hello from MrBillDoesMath!

Answer:

The first marker is labeled 208708; the second (consecutive) one 208709                  

Discussion:

Call the first mile marker "m". Then

m + (m+1) = 417417            => combine like terms

2m + 1 = 417417                 => subtract 1 from both sides

2m =  417416                     => divide both sides by 2

m  = 417416/2  = 208708                  

Note: m and (m+1) are consecutive as they immediately follow each other in the set of integers.

Thank you,

MrB