<PRE><B>Question 764875</B>
The sum of three consecutive even numbers is 138. What is smallest of the three numbers ? 

Let the three consecutive even numbers be:

n

n + 2 and

n + 4

Therefore:

n + n + 2 + n + 4 = 138

Combine like terms:

3n + 6 = 138

3n + 6 - 6 = 138 - 6

6 - 6 = 0

138 - 6 = 132

3n = 132

Divide each side by 3

3n/3 = 132/3

n = 44


Therefore the three consecutive even numbers are:

44, 46 and 48

Check:

44 + 46 = 90 + 48 = 138


Answer:

44










Lennox Obuong
Algebra Tutor
Nairobi, Kenya
Email: lennoxobuong@yahoo.com </PRE>