An example of consecutive odd numbers is 23, 25, 27, and 29. Find the smallest of four consecutive odd numbers with a sum of 160.
160 / 4 = 40
41 , 39 , 43 , 37
To find the smallest of four consecutive odd numbers with a sum of 160, we can use a systematic approach.
Let's assume that the smallest odd number in the sequence is N. Since we have four consecutive odd numbers, we can express the other three numbers in terms of N. The next odd number will be N + 2, then N + 4, and finally N + 6.
To find the sum of the four consecutive odd numbers, we add them up:
N + (N + 2) + (N + 4) + (N + 6) = 160
Next, let's simplify and combine like terms:
4N + 12 = 160
Subtract 12 from both sides of the equation:
4N = 160 - 12
4N = 148
Divide both sides of the equation by 4:
N = 148 / 4
N = 37
Therefore, the smallest of the four consecutive odd numbers with a sum of 160 is 37.