[tex] \huge \boxed{answer}[/tex]
Let's denote the three consecutive whole numbers as x, x+1, and x+2.
According to the conditions:
1. Their sum is more than 45 but less than 54.
2. Their sum can be expressed as: x + (x+1) + (x+2).
We can set up the inequality:
[tex]45 < 3x + 3 < 54[/tex]
Divide all parts by 3:
[tex]15 < x + 1 < 18[/tex]
Subtract 1 from all parts:
[tex]14 < x < 17[/tex]
Now, we need to find a whole number x that satisfies this inequality.
The only whole number between 14 and 17 is 15.
So, the three consecutive whole numbers are 15, 16, and 17. Their sum is 48, which is more than 45 but less than 54.
