Let the lesser number be "x", and the greater number be "x + 1".The sum of these two numbers "x" & "x + 1" is equal to 173.
Set the equation:
(x) + (x + 1) = 173
Simplify. Combine like terms
x + x + 1 = 173
(x + x) + 1 = 173
2x + 1 = 173
Isolate the x. Note the equal sign, what you do to one side, you do to the other. Do the opposite of PEMDAS.
First, subtract 1 from both sides
2x + 1 (-1) = 173 (-1)
2x = 173 - 1
2x = 172
Next, divide 2 from both sides
(2x)/2 = (172)/2
x = 172/2
x = 86
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The first integer is 86. Find the next number. Plug in 86 for x in "x + 1"
x + 1 =
(86) + 1 = 87
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The two integers are 86 & 87.
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