If m and n are consecutive positive integers, is m greater than n?
(1) m-1 and n+1 are consecutive positive integers
(2) m is an even integer
[spoiler]OA=A[/spoiler]
Source: Official Guide
If m and n are consecutive positive integer, is m greater
This topic has expert replies
GMAT/MBA Expert
- Jay@ManhattanReview
- GMAT Instructor
- Posts: 3008
- Joined: Mon Aug 22, 2016 6:19 am
- Location: Grand Central / New York
- Thanked: 470 times
- Followed by:34 members
Timer
00:00
Your Answer
A
B
C
D
E
Global Stats
Given that m and n are consecutive positive integers, there are two possibilities: 1. m > n and 2. n > m.VJesus12 wrote:If m and n are consecutive positive integers, is m greater than n?
(1) m-1 and n+1 are consecutive positive integers
(2) m is an even integer
[spoiler]OA=A[/spoiler]
Source: Official Guide
We have to determine whether m > n.
Let's take each statement one by one.
(1) m - 1 and n + 1 are consecutive positive integers.
Case 1: Say m - 1 and n + 1 are consecutive positive integers, in that order.
Thus, m - 1 + 1 = n + 1 => m = n + 1. We see that m and n are consecutive positive integers and m > n.
Case 2: Say m - 1 and n + 1 are consecutive positive integers, in reverse order.
Thus, n + 1 + 1 = m - 1 => n + 3 = m. We see that m and n are NOT consecutive positive integers; thus, it is not a valid case, or only Case 1 is valid. Thus, m > n. Sufficient.
(2) m is an even integer.
Clearly insufficient.
The correct answer: A
Hope this helps!
-Jay
_________________
Manhattan Review GMAT Prep
Locations: Zurich GMAT Prep | Free ACT Practice Questions | LSAT Prep Courses Cambridge | SAT Prep Courses Shanghai | and many more...
Schedule your free consultation with an experienced GMAT Prep Advisor! Click here.