Find the value of x in the equation 3 (x + 2) = x.

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First number = x

Consecutive number = x+1

"squares differ by 31" means to square both numbers and subtract them:

(x+1) ^2 - (x) ^2 = 31

x^2+2x+1 - x^2 = 31

2x+1 = 31

2x = 30

x = 15 (first number)

x+1 = 15+1 = 16 (consecutive number)