Let the three consecutive odd numbers be n, n+2, n+4.<br><br>
[[model:questions/solutions/q6985.png]]<br><br>
Sum = n + (n + 2) + (n + 4) = 3n + 6<br>
Given: Sum = 15 + 2n<br><br>
3n + 6 = 2n + 15<br>
&bull; 3n − 2n = 15 − 6<br>
&bull; n = 9<br><br>
The smallest number is 9.<br>
Check: numbers are 9, 11, 13. Sum = 33. 15 + 2(9) = 33. ✓<br><br>
Final Answer: 9