10
algebra

The sum of three consecutive integers is 36. What is the smallest integer?

A

11

B

13

C

12

D

10

Correct Answer: A

Choice Bhoice C is the correct answer.

  1. Define variables: Let xx be the smallest. The others are x+1x+1 and x+2x+2.
  2. Equation: x+(x+1)+(x+2)=36x + (x + 1) + (x + 2) = 36
  3. Combine: 3x+3=363x + 3 = 36
  4. Subtract 3: 3x=333x = 33
  5. Divide by 3: x=11x = 11
  6. Verify: 11+12+13=3611 + 12 + 13 = 36

Choice Bhoice D is incorrect because this is the middle integer.

Choice Bhoice D is incorrect because this is the largest integer.

Choice Bhoice A is incorrect because calculation error.