If n is an integer and n^4 is divisible by 32, which of the following could be the remainder when n is divided by 32?
(A) 2
(B) 4
(C) 5
(D) 6
(E) 10
(A) 2
(B) 4
(C) 5
(D) 6
(E) 10
BREAKING: Target Test Prep releases Brand New 2026 On Demand GMAT prep course
RedeemTarget Test Prep · GMAT
Learn live with an expert or move at your own pace. Every option includes the complete TTP study system.

with Chris Peckover

with Logan Thompson
Complete access from day one. Study on your schedule.
Compare the format, schedule, and included access before enrolling. Prices and seat counts shown reflect the supplied offer details.
4^4 is 256, which is certainly divisible by 32.scoobydooby wrote:i get B too, worked out just like ssmiles08 did.
hey avenus,
do you have the OE? curious how they solved it

Could you explain this a little more. how does 4/32 provide R 4 ?ssmiles08 wrote:I got 4.
Not sure if it is right but here is my explanation:
if n^4 is divisible by 32, the n^4 must have at least five 2's in it's product.
since n^4 = n^2* n^2
every prime number in n must occur in sets of 2.
2*2*2*2*2 = 32;
32 is 2^5, so three more 2's need to be added to make n have four sets of two 2's.
so the smallest value n could possibly be is 4
4/32, would give the remainder of 4.
I am not sure if I explained it really well. What is the OA?
If you draw out a long division on the paper: 4 would be inside and 32 is outside.doclkk wrote:
Could you explain this a little more. how does 4/32 provide R 4 ?
4/32 = 1/8... how can you have a remainder when the numerator is larger than the denominator.
Yea I got it now, just have never done this on a GMAT problem yet ...?ssmiles08 wrote:If you draw out a long division on the paper: 4 would be inside and 32 is outside.doclkk wrote:
Could you explain this a little more. how does 4/32 provide R 4 ?
4/32 = 1/8... how can you have a remainder when the numerator is larger than the denominator.
0 is the quotient which gives you 32*0 = 0; so 4-0 = 4: remainder
Hope that clarifies a little
New here Create free account