Question33. Fill in the blank. The sum of three consecutive counting numbers always has a divisor (other than 1 ) of . Prove.
Studdy Solution
STEP 1
1. We are dealing with three consecutive counting numbers.
2. We need to find a divisor (other than 1) that always divides the sum of these three numbers.
3. Counting numbers are positive integers starting from 1.
STEP 2
1. Define the three consecutive numbers.
2. Express the sum of these numbers.
3. Simplify the expression for the sum.
4. Identify the divisor and prove it.
STEP 3
Let the three consecutive counting numbers be , , and .
STEP 4
Express the sum of these three numbers:
STEP 5
Simplify the expression for the sum:
STEP 6
Factor the expression:
Since the expression is factored as , it is clear that the sum is always divisible by 3.
The sum of three consecutive counting numbers always has a divisor (other than 1) of:
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