High School

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 solve for the first number in the equation [tex]\(2n + 1 = 157\)[/tex], follow these steps:

1. Subtract 1 from both sides of the equation to isolate the term involving [tex]\(n\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
2n = 157 - 1
\][/tex]

2. Simplify the right side of the equation:
[tex]\[
2n = 156
\][/tex]

3. Divide both sides by 2 to solve for [tex]\(n\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
n = \frac{156}{2}
\][/tex]

4. Calculate the result:
[tex]\[
n = 78
\][/tex]

Therefore, the first number is [tex]\( \boxed{78} \)[/tex].