BTGModeratorVI wrote: ↑Tue Mar 10, 2020 7:19 am
The sum of two integers is 27. The larger integer is 25% greater than the smaller integer. What is the positive difference between the two integers?
A. 3
B. 6
C. 9
D. 12
E. 15
Answer:
A
Source: Princeton Review
Let x = the smaller integer
So, 1.25x = the larger integer (since the larger integer is 25% greater than the smaller integer)
The sum of two integers is 27.
We can write: x + 1.25x = 27
Simplify: 2.25x = 27
Solve: x = 27/2.25
IMPORTANT: What's a nice fast way to evaluate 27/2.25?
An easy way is to create an EQUIVALENT fraction that has a nice denominator.
Take: 27/2.25
Double the top and bottom to get: 54/4.5 (better)
Double the top and bottom again to get: 108/9 (aha!!!)
Evaluate: 108/9 = 12
So, x = 12
So, the smaller number is
12
1.25x = the larger integer
1.25(
12) =
15
The positive difference =
15 -
12 = 3
Answer: A
Cheers,
Brent
Brent Hanneson - Creator of GMATPrepNow.com
