Answer :
To solve the problem of finding the first number, let's break down the situation:
1. We are given that the sum of two consecutive numbers is 157.
2. Let's represent the first number as [tex]\( n \)[/tex].
3. Since the numbers are consecutive, the second number can be represented as [tex]\( n + 1 \)[/tex].
4. According to the problem, the sum of these two numbers is given by the equation:
[tex]\[
n + (n + 1) = 157
\][/tex]
5. Simplify the equation:
[tex]\[
n + n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
6. Combine like terms:
[tex]\[
2n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
7. To find the value of [tex]\( n \)[/tex], first subtract 1 from both sides:
[tex]\[
2n = 157 - 1
\][/tex]
[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]
8. Now, divide both sides by 2 to solve for [tex]\( n \)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
n = \frac{156}{2}
\][/tex]
[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]
Thus, the first number is 78. Therefore, the correct answer is B. 78.
1. We are given that the sum of two consecutive numbers is 157.
2. Let's represent the first number as [tex]\( n \)[/tex].
3. Since the numbers are consecutive, the second number can be represented as [tex]\( n + 1 \)[/tex].
4. According to the problem, the sum of these two numbers is given by the equation:
[tex]\[
n + (n + 1) = 157
\][/tex]
5. Simplify the equation:
[tex]\[
n + n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
6. Combine like terms:
[tex]\[
2n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]
7. To find the value of [tex]\( n \)[/tex], first subtract 1 from both sides:
[tex]\[
2n = 157 - 1
\][/tex]
[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]
8. Now, divide both sides by 2 to solve for [tex]\( n \)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
n = \frac{156}{2}
\][/tex]
[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]
Thus, the first number is 78. Therefore, the correct answer is B. 78.
