The sum of two consecutive odd numbers is 80 find the numbers

The two numbers are 39 and 41

Work Shown:

x = some odd number

x+2 = next odd number

eg: x = 3 and x+2 = 3+2 = 5

Add up those two expressions, set the sum equal to 80, and solve for x

(x) + (x+2) = 80

2x+2 = 80

2(x+1) = 80

x+1 = 80/2

x+1 = 40

x = 40-1

x = 39

Another way to solve is to do this

2x+2 = 80

2x = 80-2

2x = 78

x = 78/2

x = 39

Either way, the solution is x = 39 which means the next odd number up is x+2 = 39+2 = 41

To check the answer, add up the two values

39+41 = 80

This confirms we have the right answer.