SOLUTION: what are 4 consecutive even integers with a sum of -124

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Question 1165617: what are 4 consecutive even integers with a sum of -124
Answer by greenestamps(13209) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Using formal algebra, you could do something like this:

x = 1st integer
x+2 = 2nd
x+4 = 3rd
x+6 = 4th

Then write and solve the equation that says their sum is -124:

x%2Bx%2B2%2Bx%2B4%2Bx%2B6+=+-124

That equation is easily solved using basic algebra. Then use the solution to answer the question.

If formal algebra is not required, then there is a quick and easy path to the answer.

The average of the four even integers is -124/4 = -31. That means the four even integers are the two integers closest to, and on either side of, -31. Those four integers are -28, -30, -32, and -34.