Find four consecutive integers whose sums is -38?

1.) -13, -12, -11, -10
2.) -12, -11,-10,-9
3.) -11, -10, -9, -8
4.) -10, -9, -8, -7

Question

Find four consecutive integers whose sums is -38?

1.) -13, -12, -11, -10
2.) -12, -11,-10,-9
3.) -11, -10, -9, -8
4.) -10, -9, -8, -7

whpalmer4 · Answer

We can write 4 consecutive integers as n, n+1, n+2, n+3.  We also know that the sum of them = -38.  
$$n+n+1+n+2+n+3 = -38$$
Solve that for n, then compute the next three by n+1, n+2, n+3.

whpalmer4 · Answer

Alternative approach: if you have 4 consecutive integers, you can pair them up as 

n + n + 3 = 2n + 3
n+1 + n+2 = 2n + 3
Each pair will be half of -38
2n + 3 = -19

I'd do it this way if I didn't have paper and pencil, the other way if I did.

anonymous · Answer

I reallyyy just need to answer.

whpalmer4 · Answer

You really just need to do the problem.  Having the answer without being able to do it is useless.