Question

If the sum of three consecutive numbers is 36. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

11, 12, 13

Explanation:

x is the first number

(x + 1) is the second number

(x + 2) is the third number

x + x+1 + x+2 = 36

3x + 3 = 36

3x = 36 - 3

3x = 33

x = 11 ← the first number

the second number = x + 1 = 11 + 1 = 12

the third number = x + 2 = 11 + 2 = 13

Answer 2

`\huge{\boxed{11}}\ \ \huge{\boxed{12}}\ \ \huge{\boxed{13}}`

First, represent the numbers with variables.
`x` is the first number.
`x+1` is the second number, since they are consecutive.
`x+2` is the third and final number.

Make a statement.
`x+x+1+x+2=36`

Combine the variables.
`3x+1+2=36`

Combine the constants.
`3x+3=36`

Isolate the variable by subtracting
`3` on each side.
`3x=33`

Finish isolating the variable by dividing both sides by
`3`.
`x=11`

This means the first number is
`\boxed{11}`. Since the three numbers are consecutive, the other two numbers are
`\boxed{12}` and
`\boxed{13}`.

We can then check out work by adding these three numbers together. If they equal
`36`, then the answer is correct.
`11+12+13=36`

Add
`11` and
`12`.
`23+13=36`

Add
`23` and
`13`.
`36=36`

This means our answer is correct.