Question

select the correct answer.
the sum of two consecutive numbers is 157. this equation, where n is the first number, represents the situation:
2n + 1 = 157.
what is the first number?

a. 77
b. 78
c. 79
d. 80

Explanation:

Step1: Subtract 1 from both sides

To solve for \( n \), we first subtract 1 from both sides of the equation \( 2n + 1 = 157 \). This gives us \( 2n + 1 - 1 = 157 - 1 \), which simplifies to \( 2n = 156 \).

Step2: Divide both sides by 2

Next, we divide both sides of the equation \( 2n = 156 \) by 2. So, \( \frac{2n}{2} = \frac{156}{2} \), which simplifies to \( n = 78 \).

Answer:

B. 78