College

Select the correct answer.

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

What is the first number?

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

Answer :

To find the first number in the sum of two consecutive numbers that equals 157, we start with the equation given in the problem:

[tex]\[ 2n + 1 = 157 \][/tex]

Here, [tex]\( n \)[/tex] represents the first number, and the next consecutive number is [tex]\( n + 1 \)[/tex]. Let's solve the equation step by step:

1. Subtract 1 from both sides:

[tex]\[
2n + 1 - 1 = 157 - 1
\][/tex]

[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]

2. Divide both sides by 2 to solve for [tex]\( n \)[/tex]:

[tex]\[
n = \frac{156}{2}
\][/tex]

[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]

Therefore, the first number is 78. So, the correct answer is:

B. 78