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------------------------------------------------ Select the correct answer.

The sum of two consecutive numbers is 157. This equation, where [tex]n[/tex] is the first number, represents: [tex]2n + 1 = 157[/tex].

What is the first number?

A. 77
B. 78
C. 79
D. 80

To solve the problem of finding the first number of two consecutive numbers that add up to 157, let's break it down step by step based on the equation provided:

1. Understand the equation:
We are given that the sum of two consecutive numbers is 157. If we let the first number be [tex]$ n $[/tex], the consecutive number would be [tex]$ n + 1 $[/tex]. So, the equation representing this situation is:
[tex]\[
n + (n + 1) = 157
\][/tex]

2. Simplify the equation:
Combine the like terms (the [tex]$ n $[/tex] terms):
[tex]\[
n + n + 1 = 157 \\
2n + 1 = 157
\][/tex]

3. Solve for [tex]$ n $[/tex]:
First, subtract 1 from both sides of the equation to isolate the term with [tex]$ n $[/tex]:
[tex]\[
2n = 157 - 1 \\
2n = 156
\][/tex]

Next, divide both sides by 2 to solve for [tex]$ n $[/tex]:
[tex]\[
n = \frac{156}{2} \\
n = 78
\][/tex]

So, the first number is 78, which corresponds to option B.