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Question
The average (arithmetic mean) of the positive integers , and is 3 . If , what is the greatest possible value of ?

Answer Choices
- A.5
- B.6
- C.7
- D.8
- E.9
Steps
| Explanation | Calculations | Help |
|---|---|---|
We translate the statement about the average into an equation. | = 3 | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS1-B Click to view full details |
We solve this equation to find the sum of the three integers. | x + y + z = 9 | |
We need to maximize given and that are positive integers, so we choose the smallest possible values for and . | x = 1; y = 2 | |
We substitute and into the sum to find . | z = 9 - 1 - 2 = 6 | Theory & Tactics Method Card EQUA3-A Click to view full details |
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Final Answer
6
Question
The average (arithmetic mean) of the positive integers , and is 3 . If , what is the greatest possible value of ?

Answer Choices
- A.5
- B.6
- C.7
- D.8
- E.9
Steps
| Explanation | Calculations | Help |
|---|---|---|
We translate the statement about the average into an equation. | = 3 | Theory & Tactics Method Card TRANS1-B Click to view full details |
We solve this equation to find the sum of the three integers. | x + y + z = 9 | |
We need to maximize given and that are positive integers, so we choose the smallest possible values for and . | x = 1; y = 2 | |
We substitute and into the sum to find . | z = 9 - 1 - 2 = 6 | Theory & Tactics Method Card EQUA3-A Click to view full details |
Scroll horizontally to view all columns
Final Answer
6