The sum of three numbers is 8.5. The second is 7 more than the first. The third is 2 more than 4 times the second. Find the numbers.

I think the are

- 4.75, 2.25 and 11

Let the first number be x

first number = x

Second is 7 more than the first

second number = x + 7

The third is 2 more than 4 times the second

third number = 4 (x+7) + 2 = 4x + 28 + 2 = 4x + 30

sum of three numbers is 8.5

x + x + 7 + 4x + 30 = 8.5

6x + 37 = 8.5

6x = 8.5 - 37

6x = - 28.5

x = - 4.75

first number = x = - 4.75

second number = x + 7 = 2.25

third number = 4x + 30 = 4 (-4.75) + 30 = 11

They are - 4.75, 2.25 and 11