Problem Solving

BTGmoderatorDC wrote: ↑

Wed Feb 12, 2020 7:01 pm

Over five different years, the total rainfall in Brooks County was, in ascending order, 15 inches, 24 inches, x inches, 45 inches, and 60 inches. If the average annual rainfall was equal to the median annual rainfall for those five years, what was the average rainfall?

A. 30
B. 32
C. 35
D. 36
E. 40

OA D

Source: Veritas Prep

Since the rainfalls are given in ascending order: 15 inches, 24 inches, x inches, 45 inches, and 60 inches, the middle-most value, i.e., x would be the median.

So, median = x inches

Average of 15 inches, 24 inches, x inches, 45 inches, and 60 inches = (15 + 24 + x + 45 + 60)/5 (144 + x)/5 inches

=> (144 + x)/5 = x (given);

=> x = 36 inches

The correct answer: D

Hope this helps!

-Jay
_________________
Manhattan Review

Locations: Manhattan Review Jayanagar | GMAT Prep Tarnaka | GRE Prep Madhapur | Kukatpally GRE Coaching | and many more...

Schedule your free consultation with an experienced GMAT Prep Advisor! Click here.

BTGmoderatorDC wrote: ↑

Wed Feb 12, 2020 7:01 pm

Over five different years, the total rainfall in Brooks County was, in ascending order, 15 inches, 24 inches, x inches, 45 inches, and 60 inches. If the average annual rainfall was equal to the median annual rainfall for those five years, what was the average rainfall?

A. 30
B. 32
C. 35
D. 36
E. 40



OA D

Source: Veritas Prep

We see that x must be the median and also the average annual rainfall. We can create the equation:

(15 + 24 + x + 45 + 60) / 5 = x

144 + x = 5x

144 = 4x

36 = x

Answer: D