Answer :
To solve the problem of finding the first number when the sum of two consecutive numbers is 157, we can set up an equation. Let's break it down step-by-step:
1. Understanding Consecutive Numbers:
- If one number is [tex]\( n \)[/tex], the next consecutive number is [tex]\( n + 1 \)[/tex].
2. Setting Up the Equation:
- The sum of two consecutive numbers is given as 157. Therefore, we can write this as:
[tex]\[
n + (n + 1) = 157
\][/tex]
3. Simplify the Equation:
- Combine like terms:
[tex]\[
2n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
4. Solve for [tex]\( n \)[/tex]:
- To isolate [tex]\( n \)[/tex], first subtract 1 from both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]
- Then, divide both sides by 2:
[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]
Therefore, the first number is 78. So, the correct answer is B. 78.
1. Understanding Consecutive Numbers:
- If one number is [tex]\( n \)[/tex], the next consecutive number is [tex]\( n + 1 \)[/tex].
2. Setting Up the Equation:
- The sum of two consecutive numbers is given as 157. Therefore, we can write this as:
[tex]\[
n + (n + 1) = 157
\][/tex]
3. Simplify the Equation:
- Combine like terms:
[tex]\[
2n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
4. Solve for [tex]\( n \)[/tex]:
- To isolate [tex]\( n \)[/tex], first subtract 1 from both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]
- Then, divide both sides by 2:
[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]
Therefore, the first number is 78. So, the correct answer is B. 78.
