Four Consecutive Even Integers

The sum of 4 consecutive even integers is 44. Find the integers.

Let me see.

Consecutive even integers:

x, x + 2, x + 4, x + 6.

Set Up:

x + x + 2 + x + 4 + x + 6 = 44

Yes?

 

correct

 

This is what I care about. The SET UP means understanding.

 

A REAL mathematician couldn't stop without solving the problem!

x + x + 2 + x + 4 + x + 6 = 4x+ 12= 44
Subtract 12 from both sides:
4x= 32
Divide both sides by 4:
x= 8.

The four consecutive integers are 8, 10, 12, and 14.

Check: The sum of the four integers is 8+ 10+ 12+ 14= 18+ 26= 44.

 

When did I ever make such a stupid claim? Me a mathematician? Ha! You are funny.