If a, b, c and d are four consecutive integers (not necessar

[Brent@GMATPrepNow]

If a, b, c and d are four consecutive integers (not necessarily in that order), and a^b = c^d, what is the LEAST possible value of a+b+c+d?

A) -8
B) -6
C) -2
D) 6
E) 12

Answer: B
Source: www.gmatprepnow.com
Difficulty level: 650-700

[deloitte247]

$$1^n=1\ when\ n=any\ integer$$
$$-1^n=1\ when\ n=any\ even\ integer$$
$$n^0=1\ when\ n=any\ integer$$
If a=-1, b=-2, c=-3 and d=0
Following the expression
$$a^b=c^d$$
$$Therefore,\ \left(-1\right)^{-2}=-3^0$$
$$\frac{1}{\left(-1\right)^2}=1$$
$$\frac{1}{1}=1$$
This satisfies the given expression. So, the sum of the four integers = (-1) + (-2) + (-3) + (0) = -6

Answer = Option B