Answer :
We are given the equation for two consecutive numbers:
[tex]$$
2n + 1 = 157
$$[/tex]
where [tex]$n$[/tex] is the first number.
Step 1: Subtract [tex]$1$[/tex] from both sides to isolate the term with [tex]$n$[/tex]:
[tex]$$
2n = 157 - 1 = 156.
$$[/tex]
Step 2: Divide both sides by [tex]$2$[/tex] to solve for [tex]$n$[/tex]:
[tex]$$
n = \frac{156}{2} = 78.
$$[/tex]
So, the first number is [tex]$78$[/tex].
Thus, the correct answer is option B.
[tex]$$
2n + 1 = 157
$$[/tex]
where [tex]$n$[/tex] is the first number.
Step 1: Subtract [tex]$1$[/tex] from both sides to isolate the term with [tex]$n$[/tex]:
[tex]$$
2n = 157 - 1 = 156.
$$[/tex]
Step 2: Divide both sides by [tex]$2$[/tex] to solve for [tex]$n$[/tex]:
[tex]$$
n = \frac{156}{2} = 78.
$$[/tex]
So, the first number is [tex]$78$[/tex].
Thus, the correct answer is option B.
