SOLUTION: There are 3 consecutive numbers. The product of the smaller two is equal to twice the third number plus 2. I tried x(x+1)=2(x+2) but the answer of -1 or 4 doesn't plug in. help!

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Question 373357: There are 3 consecutive numbers. The product of the smaller two is equal to twice the third number plus 2. I tried x(x+1)=2(x+2) but the answer of -1 or 4 doesn't plug in. help!
Answer by robertb(5830) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x(x+1) = 2(x+2)+2.
x%5E2+%2B+x+=+2x%2B4%2B2,
x%5E2+%2B+x+=+2x%2B6,
x%5E2-x-6+=+0,
(x-3)(x+2) = 0, hence x = 3 or x = -2.
If x = 3, then the 3 consecutive numbers are 3,4,5.
If x = -2, then the 3 consecutive numbers are -2,-1,0. Thus there are two sets of solutions.