Math Problem Statement

The sum of three numbers Is fifty-seven. The second is three more than twice the first. The third is six more than the first. Find the numbers.

Solution

Let's define the three numbers as follows:

  • Let the first number be xx.
  • The second number is three more than twice the first, so it can be written as 2x+32x + 3.
  • The third number is six more than the first, so it can be written as x+6x + 6.

The sum of these three numbers is given as 57. Therefore, we can set up the following equation:

x+(2x+3)+(x+6)=57x + (2x + 3) + (x + 6) = 57

Now, combine like terms:

x+2x+3+x+6=57x + 2x + 3 + x + 6 = 57

Simplify:

4x+9=574x + 9 = 57

Next, subtract 9 from both sides:

4x=484x = 48

Now, divide both sides by 4:

x=12x = 12

So, the first number is 1212.

Now that we know x=12x = 12, we can find the other two numbers:

  • The second number is 2x+3=2(12)+3=24+3=272x + 3 = 2(12) + 3 = 24 + 3 = 27.
  • The third number is x+6=12+6=18x + 6 = 12 + 6 = 18.

Thus, the three numbers are 12, 27, and 18.

Would you like more details or have any questions on this solution?

Here are five related questions for further exploration:

  1. What would happen if the sum of the numbers were different, say 60?
  2. How would the solution change if the second number was 4 more than twice the first?
  3. How can you check the solution once you have the values for the three numbers?
  4. Can you solve a similar system where the sum is 100 and the relationships remain the same?
  5. What are some real-world applications where you might encounter such problems?

Tip: Always define your variables clearly at the start of the problem, and carefully translate the given relationships into algebraic expressions to avoid confusion!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
System of Equations

Formulas

x + (2x + 3) + (x + 6) = 57

Theorems

Solving linear equations
Combining like terms
Isolating variables

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8