Integer

[hbtcutie92]

If the nymebr represented by n-3 is an odd integer, which expression represents the next greatest odd integer?

1) n-5 2) n-2 3) n-1 4) n + 1

I think its n - 1 because n -5 lower number then -3 on the negative side. n- 2 is not odd, and n+ 1 is just not right, so i think its 3) n-1

 

[stapel]

Correct answer, with correct reasoning.

Eliz.

 

[lsosa02]

that is the correct answer ,,to get a greater integer you have to reduce the number you are using to subtract . Since it says you need the next "ODD" integer it was -1. do you understand it now ?

 

[soroban]

Hello, hbtcutie92!

If the number represented by $\displaystyle n-3$ is an odd integer,
which expression represents the next greatest odd integer?

$\displaystyle 1)\;n\,-\,5\;\;\;2)\;n\,-\,2\;\;\;3)\;n\,-\,1\;\;\;4)\;n\,+\,1$

I think it's $\displaystyle n-1$ because $\displaystyle n -5$ is lower number then $\displaystyle n-3$ on the negative side.
$\displaystyle n- 2$ is not odd, and $\displaystyle n+1$ is just not right, so i think it's $\displaystyle 3)\;n\,-\,1$

Your reasoning and your answer are correct.
However, there is a faster and neater solution.

We know that odd numbers "go up by twos".
$\displaystyle \;\;$-5 + 2 = -3 . . . 7 + 2 = 9 . . . 13 + 2 = 15 . . . etc.

So if $\displaystyle n\,-\,3$ is an odd integer,
$\displaystyle \;\;$the next odd integer is: $\displaystyle \,(n\,-\,3)\,+\,2\:=\:n\,-\,1$