LUANDATO wrote:A wire is cut into three equal parts. The resulting segments are then cut in 4, 6 and 8 equal parts respectively. If each of the resulting segments has an integer length, what is the minimum length of the wire?
A. 24
B. 36
C. 48
D. 54
E. 72
We can PLUG IN THE ANSWERS, which represent the minimum length of the wire.
When we plug in the correct answer, we will be able to divide the wire first into 3 equal parts and then into 4, 6, and 8 equal parts.
Since the question stem asks for the MINIMUM length, start with the smallest answer choice.
A: 24
If a 24-inch wire is divided into 3 equal parts, the length of each part = 24/3 =
8.
The value in red cannot be divided into 6 equal parts.
Eliminate A.
B: 36
If a 36-inch wire is divided into 3 equal parts, the length of each part = 36/3 =
12.
The value in red cannot be divided into 8 equal parts.
Eliminate B.
C: 48
If a 48-inch wire is divided into 3 equal parts, the length of each part = 48/3 =
16.
The value in red cannot be divided into 6 equal parts.
Eliminate C.
D: 54
If a 54-inch wire is divided into 3 equal parts, the length of each part = 54/3 =
18.
The value in red cannot be divided into 8 equal parts.
Eliminate D.
The correct answer is
E.
E: 72
If a 72-inch wire is divided into 3 equal parts, the length of each part = 72/3 =
24.
Success!
The value in green can be divided into 4, 6, and 8 equal parts.
Private tutor exclusively for the GMAT and GRE, with over 20 years of experience.
Followed here and elsewhere by over 1900 test-takers.
I have worked with students based in the US, Australia, Taiwan, China, Tajikistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia -- a long list of countries.
My students have been admitted to HBS, CBS, Tuck, Yale, Stern, Fuqua -- a long list of top programs.
As a tutor, I don't simply teach you how I would approach problems.
I unlock the best way for YOU to solve problems.
For more information, please email me (Mitch Hunt) at
[email protected].
Student Review #1
Student Review #2
Student Review #3
