The sum of three consecutive numbers is 72. what are the smallest of these numbers?

let "a number" = x

(x) + (x + 1) + (x + 2) = 72

Simplify. Combine like terms

3x + 3 = 72

Isolate the x. Note the equal sign. What you do to one side, you do to the other. Do the opposite of PEMDAS.

3x + 3 (-3) = 72 (-3)

3x = 72 - 3

3x =  69

3x/3 = 69/3

x = 69/3

x = 23

23 is the smallest number

hope this helps

it is contrapositive

i could not see the question too well so check yourself again too . this is because i want you to get it correct.