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Question
If the smaller of two consecutive even integers is divisible by , which of the following could NOT be the sum of these two integers?

Answer Choices
- A.
- B.
- C.
- D.
- E.
Steps
| Explanation | Calculations | Help |
|---|---|---|
We translate "two consecutive even integers" into algebraic expressions using a variable. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-A Click to view full details | |
We translate "the smaller is divisible by 3" into a divisibility equation. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-E Click to view full details | |
We note that the left side is divisible by 2, so must be even; we express this with a new variable. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-A Click to view full details | |
We express the sum of the two integers. | ||
We substitute the previous expressions into the sum and simplify step by step. | ||
We observe that the sum must leave a remainder of 2 when divided by 12, so testing the options shows which fails this pattern. |
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Final Answer
E
Question
If the smaller of two consecutive even integers is divisible by , which of the following could NOT be the sum of these two integers?

Answer Choices
- A.
- B.
- C.
- D.
- E.
Steps
| Explanation | Calculations | Help |
|---|---|---|
We translate "two consecutive even integers" into algebraic expressions using a variable. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-A Click to view full details | |
We translate "the smaller is divisible by 3" into a divisibility equation. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-E Click to view full details | |
We note that the left side is divisible by 2, so must be even; we express this with a new variable. | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS5-A Click to view full details | |
We express the sum of the two integers. | ||
We substitute the previous expressions into the sum and simplify step by step. | ||
We observe that the sum must leave a remainder of 2 when divided by 12, so testing the options shows which fails this pattern. |
Scroll horizontally to view all columns
Final Answer
E