Math Problem Statement

Pierre and Ernst found three consecutive even integers such a that 7 times the sum of the first and third was 48 less than 10 times the second. What were the integers

Solution

Let's represent the three consecutive even integers as:

  • The first integer: xx
  • The second integer: x+2x + 2
  • The third integer: x+4x + 4

Step 1: Translate the problem into an equation

We know that:

  • The sum of the first and third integers is x+(x+4)=2x+4x + (x + 4) = 2x + 4.
  • Seven times the sum of the first and third integers is 7(2x+4)7(2x + 4).
  • Ten times the second integer is 10(x+2)10(x + 2).

According to the problem, 7 times the sum of the first and third integers is 48 less than 10 times the second integer. Therefore, the equation becomes:

7(2x+4)=10(x+2)487(2x + 4) = 10(x + 2) - 48

Step 2: Solve the equation

First, expand both sides:

14x+28=10x+204814x + 28 = 10x + 20 - 48

Simplify the right-hand side:

14x+28=10x2814x + 28 = 10x - 28

Now, subtract 10x10x from both sides:

4x+28=284x + 28 = -28

Next, subtract 28 from both sides:

4x=564x = -56

Finally, divide by 4:

x=14x = -14

Step 3: Find the integers

The first integer is x=14x = -14. Therefore, the three consecutive even integers are:

  • First integer: 14-14
  • Second integer: 12-12
  • Third integer: 10-10

Conclusion:

The three consecutive even integers are 14-14, 12-12, and 10-10.

Would you like further details on the steps, or do you have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How would the equation change if they were consecutive odd integers?
  2. What if the relationship involved a different number, say 5 times the sum instead of 7 times?
  3. Can this problem be extended to four consecutive integers?
  4. How does this equation-solving strategy apply to quadratic equations?
  5. What would change if one of the integers were negative but the others positive?

Tip: Always carefully set up the equation based on the relationships described in word problems to avoid errors in translation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Consecutive Integers

Formulas

7(2x + 4) = 10(x + 2) - 48

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8