A set of data consists of the terms {2, 8, 13, 15, x}. If the range of the set is 2x, which of the following could be the value of x?
A) -2
B) 3.5
C) 5
D) 6.5
E) 7.5
The OA is D.
I didn't understand how to solve this PS question. I need help.
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A set of data consists of the terms. . .
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Hi Vincen,
When given a group of numbers, the 'range' is the difference between the largest number and the smallest number. Here, we're given a set of numbers that includes a variable:
{2, 8, 13, 15, X}
The value of X could be smaller than 2, greater than 15 or something 'in between.' We're told that the range of this group is 2X though, so we have to find a value of X that would lead to that specific range.
Using the 4 numbers that we're given, we know that the range is at least 15-2 = 13 (and it could be greater depending on the value of X). Focusing on that minimum range though, if we set 2X = 13, then X would be 6.5; that answer IS among the five answer choices, so we can stop working.
Final Answer: D
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
When given a group of numbers, the 'range' is the difference between the largest number and the smallest number. Here, we're given a set of numbers that includes a variable:
{2, 8, 13, 15, X}
The value of X could be smaller than 2, greater than 15 or something 'in between.' We're told that the range of this group is 2X though, so we have to find a value of X that would lead to that specific range.
Using the 4 numbers that we're given, we know that the range is at least 15-2 = 13 (and it could be greater depending on the value of X). Focusing on that minimum range though, if we set 2X = 13, then X would be 6.5; that answer IS among the five answer choices, so we can stop working.
Final Answer: D
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
