Question 1161302
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Very often, a formal algebraic solution to a problem like this is made simpler by choosing the variable x as the middle number.  In this problem, that leads to<br>
{{{6(x-2)+5(x)+4(x+2) = 356}}}
{{{6x-12+5x+4x+8 = 356}}}
{{{15x-4 = 356}}}
{{{15x = 360}}}
{{{x = 24}}}<br>
The three numbers are 22, 24, and 26.<br>
If a formal algebraic solution is not required, you can get to the solution quickly using a bit of estimation.<br>
Since the numbers are three consecutive even integers, the sum of 6 times the first, 5 times the second, and 4 times the third is very close to 15 times the second.<br>
Estimating 15 times an even number is about 356 leads immediately to 24 as the middle number, again making the three numbers 22, 24, and 26.<br>