Question

(v) The sum of three consecutive numbers is 18. Find the smallest number :-
fa) 5
(b) 6
(c) 7​

Answer 1

AnswEr :

Let's say, that three consecutive numbers are x, (x + 1) & (x + 2) respectively.

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A/Q,

• The sum of the three consecutive numbers (x, x + 1 and x + 2) is 18.

➟ x + x + 1 + x + 2 = 18

➟ 3x + 3 = 18

➟ 3x = 18 - 3

➟ 3x = 15

➟ x = 15/3

➟ x = 5 ★

Therefore,

• First no. x = 5
• Second no. (x + 1) = (5 + 1) = 6
• Third no. (x + 2) = (5 + 2) = 7

∴ Hence, the required consecutive numbers are 5, 6 and 7 respectively.

Option (a) is correct as 5 is the smallest number$.$

Answer 2

Given :-

The sum of three consecutive numbers is 18

To Find :-

Smallest number

Solution :-

Let,

Smallest number = y

2nd number = y + 1

Biggest number = y + 1 + 1 = y + 2

Now

$\sf 18 = y+y+1+y+2$

$\sf 18 = 3y+3$

$\sf 18-3=3y$

$\sf 15 = 3y$

$\sf \dfrac{15}{3} = y$

$\sf 5 =y$

So,

Smallest number = y = 5[Option 1]