Question

The sum of three consecutive numbers is 54. Taking the middle number as x, find:

(i) expression for the smallest number and the largest number.

(ii) the three numbers.

Answer 1

Sum of three consecutive numbers = 54

Middle number = x

(i) The first number = x – 1

and third number = x + 1

(ii) ∴ x + x-1+x+1 = 54

⇒ 3x = 54

⇒ x= 54/3 = 18

∴ First number =18-1 = 17

and third number =18 + 1 = 19

∴ Three required numbers are 17, 18,19