simple algebra debate?

Question

when finding four consecutive odd integers with a sum of 88. Must we use (2x+1)+(2x+3)...or can x + (x+2) + (x+4) do?

Answer 1

You can use the x, x+2, x+4, and x+6 route if you wish. Watch:

x + (x+2) + (x+4) + (x+6) = 88
4x + 12 = 88
4x = 76
x = 19
x+2 = 21
x+4 = 23
x+6 = 25

Your four consecutive odd integers are: 19, 21, 23, and 25.

You just need to remember that your answers must be odd so you don't violate the conditions set forth in the problem.

Answer 2

to find four consecutive odd integers, neither will work

x + x + 2 + x + 4 + x + 6 = 88
or
4x + 12 = 88

the second is only finding three and the first does not work with finding consecutive odd integers

Answer 3

because they are consecutive odd intergers, a gap of two is sufficient....
x ... x+2 ... x+4 ... x+6 they sum to 4x + 12
4x + 12 = 88
4x = 76
x = 19

(19, 21, 23, 25) sum to 88

Answer 4

You can use either!

Don't listen to those who are saying that x+2 won't give you an odd number! It most certainly will if x is odd!

Personally, I like to use the easiest terms, so when I have odd or even consecutive integers, I like to use:

x
x+2
x+4
etc.

~ ♥ ~

Answer 5

You have to use the first formula. x + (x+2) + (x+4) won't be consecutive odd integers if x is even.

Answer 6

you can just use x+(x+2)+(x+4)+(x+6) = 88 and then when you solve for x (x=19) that is the first of the four numbers you are looking fo so your solution would be 19, 21,23,25.

Answer 7

Both methods are equally efficient. Don't be misled into thinking that the first method is wrong. If your numbers are odd, it doesn't matter which method is used as both will give an odd value of 'x'. I prefer the first method most of the time as it's simpler.

Answer 8

i wud say the 1st one 'cuz it gives odd numbers no matter what u plug in for x...while the other one gives even numbers if u end up pluggin in even numbers for x.